Sensor modules for light fixtures

ABSTRACT

A lighting system can include a light fixture located in a hazardous environment, wherein the light fixture comprises a controller. The light fixture can also include a sensor module communicably coupled to the controller of the light fixture, wherein the sensor module comprises a sensor module housing and a sensor disposed within the sensor module housing, wherein the sensor module housing comprises a first coupling feature that couples to a hazardous location enclosure. The hazardous location enclosure and the sensor module, when coupled to each other, can comply with applicable standards for the hazardous environment.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 62/429,580, titled “Hazardous Location Light Fixtures” andfiled on Dec. 2, 2016, which is related to U.S. patent application Ser.No. 15/382,143, titled “Prognostic and Health Monitoring Systems ForLight Fixtures” and filed on Dec. 16, 2016. The entire contents of theseaforementioned applications are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to light fixtures, and moreparticularly to systems, methods, and devices for light fixtures withsensor modules.

BACKGROUND

Light fixtures are used in a variety of environments. Many of theselight fixtures use advanced technology with a number of components. As aresult, these light fixtures can have a number of failure points. Inlighting applications, such as hazardous environments, reliability ofthe lighting system is vital. Unfortunately, the characteristics (e.g.,humidity, extreme temperatures, corrosive gas) of many environments,including but not limited to hazardous environments, can cause thefailure of one or more components of a light fixture to be accelerated.Further, the health and safety of a person located in such anenvironment can be at risk, with or without the person's knowledge. Whena light fixture is placed in certain environments, such as a hazardousenvironment, some of these components of a light fixture can pose asafety hazard and a violation of applicable standards if the componentsare not properly engineered and integrated with the rest of the lightfixture.

SUMMARY

In general, in one aspect, the disclosure relates to a lighting system.The lighting system can include a light fixture located in a hazardousenvironment, wherein the light fixture comprises a controller. Thelighting system can also include a sensor module communicably coupled tothe controller of the light fixture, wherein the sensor module comprisesa sensor module housing and a sensor disposed within the sensor modulehousing, wherein the sensor module housing comprises a first couplingfeature that couples to a hazardous location enclosure. The hazardouslocation enclosure and the sensor module, when coupled to each other,can comply with applicable standards for the hazardous environment.

In another aspect, the disclosure can generally relate to a lightingsystem. The lighting system can include a first fixture housing of afirst light fixture, where the first fixture housing includes a firstmounting feature. The lighting system can also include a sensor moduleremovably coupled to the first fixture housing, where the sensor moduleincludes a sensor module housing and a sensor disposed within the sensormodule housing, where the sensor module housing includes a firstcoupling feature that couples to the first mounting feature of the firstfixture housing. The sensor device can be adjustable relative to thefirst fixture housing.

In yet another aspect, the disclosure can generally relate to a sensormodule that couples to a housing of a light fixture. The sensor modulecan include a housing having at least one wall that forms a cavity. Thesensor module can also include a sensor disposed within the cavity,where the sensor is configured to measure at least one parameter used tocontrol operation of the light fixture. The sensor module can furtherinclude a bezel coupled to the housing, where the bezel has an aperturethat traverses therethrough. The sensor module can also include a lensdisposed within the aperture, and a mount disposed within the cavity andcoupled to the bezel, where the sensor is supported by the mount. Thesensor module can further include a circuit board disposed within thecavity and electrically coupled to the sensor.

These and other aspects, objects, features, and embodiments will beapparent from the following description and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings illustrate only example embodiments and are therefore notto be considered limiting in scope, as the example embodiments may admitto other equally effective embodiments. The elements and features shownin the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead beingplaced upon clearly illustrating the principles of the exampleembodiments. Additionally, certain dimensions or positions may beexaggerated to help visually convey such principles. In the drawings,reference numerals designate like or corresponding, but not necessarilyidentical, elements.

FIG. 1 shows a system diagram of a lighting system that includes a lightfixture in accordance with certain example embodiments.

FIG. 2 shows a computing device in accordance with certain exampleembodiments.

FIG. 3 shows a light fixture in accordance with certain exampleembodiments.

FIG. 4 shows another light fixture in accordance with certain exampleembodiments.

FIGS. 5A and 5B show yet another light fixture in accordance withcertain example embodiments.

FIG. 6 shows still another light fixture in accordance with certainexample embodiments.

FIG. 7 shows yet another light fixture in accordance with certainexample embodiments.

FIG. 8 shows still another light fixture in accordance with certainexample embodiments.

FIGS. 9A and 9B show yet another light fixture in accordance withcertain example embodiments.

FIG. 10 shows still another light fixture in accordance with certainexample embodiments.

FIG. 11 shows yet another light fixture in accordance with certainexample embodiments.

FIG. 12 shows still another light fixture in accordance with certainexample embodiments.

FIGS. 13A and 13B show yet another light fixture in accordance withcertain example embodiments.

FIGS. 14A-14C show the sensor module of FIGS. 13A and 13B in accordancewith certain example embodiments.

FIGS. 15A and 15B show part of the light fixture of FIGS. 13A and 13B inaccordance with certain example embodiments.

FIGS. 16A-16H show detailed views of the light fixture of FIGS. 13A and13B in accordance with certain example embodiments.

FIG. 17 shows a system that includes a light fixture and a sensor modulein accordance with certain example embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In general, example embodiments provide systems, methods, and devicesfor light fixtures with sensor modules. Example light fixtures withsensor modules provide a number of benefits. Such benefits can include,but are not limited to, preventing abrupt failure of light fixtures incritical applications, longer useful life of light fixtures, improvedsafety in areas where example light fixtures are located, reducedoperating costs, adjustability for optimal performance, and compliancewith industry standards that apply to light fixtures located in certainenvironments.

In some cases, the example embodiments discussed herein can be used in ahazardous environment. In such a case, example embodiments can belocated in any type of hazardous environment, including but not limitedto an airplane hangar, a drilling rig (as for oil, gas, or water), aproduction rig (as for oil or gas), a refinery, a chemical plant, apower plant, a mining operation, a wastewater treatment facility, and asteel mill. A hazardous environment can include an explosion-proofenvironment, which would require an enclosure with an example moisturecontrol system to meet one or more requirements, including but notlimited to flame paths.

An explosion-proof enclosure is a type of hazardous location enclosure.In one or more example embodiments, an explosion-proof enclosure (alsoknown as a flame-proof enclosure) is an enclosure that is configured tocontain an explosion that originates inside the enclosure. Further, theexplosion-proof enclosure is configured to allow gases from inside theenclosure to escape across joints of the enclosure and cool as the gasesexit the explosion-proof enclosure. The joints are also known as flamepaths and exist where two surfaces meet and provide a path, from insidethe explosion-proof enclosure to outside the explosion-proof enclosure,along which one or more gases may travel. A joint may be a mating of anytwo or more surfaces. Each surface may be any type of surface, includingbut not limited to a flat surface, a threaded surface, and a serratedsurface. In some cases, the housing of a light fixture that couples toan example sensor can be considered an explosion-proof enclosure.

In one or more example embodiments, an explosion-proof enclosure issubject to meeting certain standards and/or requirements. For example,NEMA sets standards with which an enclosure must comply in order toqualify as an explosion-proof enclosure. Specifically, NEMA Type 7, Type8, Type 9, and Type 10 enclosures set standards with which anexplosion-proof enclosure within certain hazardous locations mustcomply. For example, a NEMA Type 7 standard applies to enclosuresconstructed for indoor use in certain hazardous locations. Hazardouslocations may be defined by one or more of a number of authorities,including but not limited to the National Electric Code (e.g., Class 1,Division I) and UL (e.g., UL 1203). For example, a Class 1 hazardousarea under the National Electric Code is an area in which flammablegases or vapors may be present in the air in sufficient quantities to beexplosive.

As a specific example, NEMA standards for an explosion-proof enclosureof a certain size or range of sizes (e.g., greater than 100 in³) mayrequire that in a Group B, Division 1 area, any flame path of anexplosion-proof enclosure must be at least 1 inch long (continuous andwithout interruption), and the gap between the surfaces cannot exceed0.0015 inches. Standards created and maintained by NEMA may be found atwww.nema.org/stds and are hereby incorporated by reference.

The example light fixtures having sensor modules (or components thereof)described herein can be made of one or more of a number of suitablematerials to allow the light fixture and/or other associated componentsof a system to meet certain standards and/or regulations while alsomaintaining durability in light of the one or more conditions underwhich the light fixtures and/or other associated components of thesystem can be exposed. Examples of such materials can include, but arenot limited to, aluminum, stainless steel, fiberglass, glass, plastic,ceramic, and rubber. Example embodiments can also be used innon-hazardous environments.

Example light fixtures (or portions thereof) having sensor modulesdescribed herein can be made from a single piece (as from a mold,injection mold, die cast, or extrusion process). In addition, or in thealternative, example light fixtures (or portions thereof) having sensormodules can be made from multiple pieces that are mechanically coupledto each other. In such a case, the multiple pieces can be mechanicallycoupled to each other using one or more of a number of coupling methods,including but not limited to epoxy, welding, fastening devices,compression fittings, mating threads, and slotted fittings. One or morepieces that are mechanically coupled to each other can be coupled toeach other in one or more of a number of ways, including but not limitedto fixedly, hingedly, removeably, slidably, and threadably.

Components and/or features described herein can include elements thatare described as coupling, fastening, securing, or other similar terms.Such terms are merely meant to distinguish various elements and/orfeatures within a component or device and are not meant to limit thecapability or function of that particular element and/or feature. Forexample, a feature described as a “coupling feature” can couple, secure,fasten, abut against, and/or perform other functions aside from merelycoupling.

A coupling feature (including a complementary coupling feature) asdescribed herein can allow one or more components and/or portions of anexample light fixture (e.g., a sensor device) to become mechanicallycoupled, directly or indirectly, to another portion of the light fixture(e.g., a housing). A coupling feature can include, but is not limitedto, a portion of a hinge, an aperture, a recessed area, a protrusion, aslot, a spring clip, a male connector end, a female connector end, atab, a detent, and mating threads. One portion of an example lightfixture can be coupled to another portion of the light fixture by thedirect use of one or more coupling features.

In addition, or in the alternative, a portion (e.g., a sensor device) ofan example light fixture can be coupled to another portion (e.g., ahousing) of the light fixture using one or more independent devices thatinteract with one or more coupling features disposed on a component ofthe light fixture. Examples of such devices can include, but are notlimited to, a pin, a male connector end, a female connector end, ahinge, epoxy, welding, a fastening device (e.g., a bolt, a screw, arivet), and a spring. One coupling feature described herein can be thesame as, or different than, one or more other coupling featuresdescribed herein. A complementary coupling feature as described hereincan be a coupling feature that mechanically couples, directly orindirectly, with another coupling feature.

The mechanical coupling features are the primary focus of the variousexample embodiments described herein. Unless described otherwise below,the electrical connection between an example sensor module and a lightfixture can be fairly standard, including one or more electricalconductors, one or more electrical connectors, one or more wire nuts,one or more terminal blocks, some other form of electrical connection,or any combination thereof. As described below, special circumstancescan arise when the light fixture is located in a specialized environment(e.g., a hazardous environment). For example, potting or other form ofencapsulation can be used for an electrical connection or for componentsused in an electrical connection between an example sensor module and alight fixture.

In the foregoing figures showing example embodiments of hazardouslocation light fixtures with sensor modules, one or more of thecomponents shown may be omitted, repeated, and/or substituted.Accordingly, example embodiments of hazardous location light fixtureswith sensor modules should not be considered limited to the specificarrangements of components shown in any of the figures. For example,features shown in one or more figures or described with respect to oneembodiment can be applied to another embodiment associated with adifferent figure or description.

While example embodiments described herein are directed to lightfixtures, integrating sensor modules can also be applied to the housingof any device (e.g., an electrical enclosure) in a hazardousenvironment. As defined herein, an electrical enclosure is any type ofcabinet or housing inside of which is disposed electrical, mechanical,electro-mechanical, and/or electronic equipment. Such equipment caninclude, but is not limited to, a controller (also called a controlmodule), a hardware processor, a power supply (e.g., a battery, adriver, a ballast), a sensor module, a safety barrier, a sensor, sensorcircuitry, a light source, electrical cables, and electrical conductors.Examples of an electrical enclosure can include, but are not limited to,a housing for a light fixture, a housing for a sensor device, anelectrical connector, a junction box, a motor control center, a breakerbox, an electrical housing, a conduit, a control panel, an indicatingpanel, and a control cabinet.

In certain example embodiments, light fixtures (or other enclosures)having sensor modules are subject to meeting certain standards and/orrequirements. For example, the National Electric Code (NEC),Underwriters Laboratories (UL), the National Electrical ManufacturersAssociation (NEMA), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC),the Federal Communication Commission (FCC), the Illuminating EngineeringSociety (IES), the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA),and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) setstandards as to electrical enclosures, wiring, and electricalconnections. Use of example embodiments described herein meet (and/orallow a corresponding device to meet) such standards when required. Forexample, UL844 sets forth standards for luminaires that are used inhazardous locations. In some (e.g., PV solar) applications, additionalstandards particular to that application may be met by the electricalenclosures described herein.

If a component of a figure is described but not expressly shown orlabeled in that figure, the label used for a corresponding component inanother figure can be inferred to that component. Conversely, if acomponent in a figure is labeled but not described, the description forsuch component can be substantially the same as the description for thecorresponding component in another figure. The numbering scheme for thevarious components in the figures herein is such that each component isa three digit number and corresponding components in other figures havethe identical last two digits.

In addition, a statement that a particular embodiment (e.g., as shown ina figure herein) does not have a particular feature or component doesnot mean, unless expressly stated, that such embodiment is not capableof having such feature or component. For example, for purposes ofpresent or future claims herein, a feature or component that isdescribed as not being included in an example embodiment shown in one ormore particular drawings is capable of being included in one or moreclaims that correspond to such one or more particular drawings herein.

Example embodiments of light fixtures with sensor modules will bedescribed more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanyingdrawings, in which example embodiments of light fixtures with sensormodules are shown. Light fixtures with sensor modules may, however, beembodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limitedto the example embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these exampleembodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough andcomplete, and will fully convey the scope of light fixtures with sensormodules to those of ordinary skill in the art. Like, but not necessarilythe same, elements (also sometimes called components) in the variousfigures are denoted by like reference numerals for consistency.

Terms such as “first”, “second”, “top”, “bottom”, “side”, “distal”,“proximal”, “up”, “down”, and “within” are used merely to distinguishone component (or part of a component or state of a component) fromanother. Such terms are not meant to denote a preference or a particularorientation, and are not meant to limit embodiments of light fixtureswith sensor modules. In the following detailed description of theexample embodiments, numerous specific details are set forth in order toprovide a more thorough understanding of the invention. However, it willbe apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the invention maybe practiced without these specific details. In other instances,well-known features have not been described in detail to avoidunnecessarily complicating the description.

FIG. 1 shows a system diagram of a lighting system 100 that includes acontroller 104 of a light fixture 102 in accordance with certain exampleembodiments. The lighting system 100 can include one or more sensormodules 160, a power source 195, one or more users 150, a networkmanager 180, and at least one light fixture 102. In addition to thecontroller 104, the light fixture 102 can include at least one optionalsafety barrier 136, one or more optional antenna assembly 139, one ormore optional energy storage devices 179, at least one power supply 140,and at least one light source 142. The controller 104 can include one ormore of a number of components. As shown in FIG. 1, such components caninclude, but are not limited to, a control engine 106, a communicationmodule 108, a real-time clock 110, an energy metering module 111, apower module 112, a storage repository 130, a hardware processor 120, amemory 122, a transceiver 124, an application interface 126, and,optionally, a security module 128. The components shown in FIG. 1 arenot exhaustive, and in some embodiments, one or more of the componentsshown in FIG. 1 may not be included in an example light fixture. Anycomponent of the example light fixture 102 can be discrete or combinedwith one or more other components of the light fixture 102.

A user 150 can be any person that interacts with light fixtures.Examples of a user may include, but are not limited to, an engineer, anelectrician, an instrumentation and controls technician, a mechanic, anoperator, a consultant, an inventory management system, an inventorymanager, a foreman, a labor scheduling system, a contractor, and amanufacturer's representative. The user 150 can use a user system (notshown), which may include a display (e.g., a GUI). The user 150interacts with (e.g., sends data to, receives data from) the controller104 of the light fixture 102 via the application interface 126(described below). The user 150 can also interact with a network manager180 and/or one or more of the sensor modules 160. Interaction betweenthe user 150 and the light fixture 102, the network manager 180, thepower source 195, and the sensor modules 160 is conducted usingcommunication links 105. Each communication link 105 can include wired(e.g., Class 1 electrical cables, Class 2 electrical cables, electricalconnectors, power line carrier, DALI, RS485) and/or wireless (e.g.,Wi-Fi, visible light communication, cellular networking, Bluetooth,WirelessHART, ISA100) technology. For example, a communication link 105can be (or include) one or more electrical conductors that are coupledto the housing 103 (a type of enclosure) of the light fixture 102 and toa sensor module 160. The communication link 105 can transmit signals(e.g., power signals, communication signals, control signals, data)between the light fixture 102 and the user 150, the network manager 180,the power source 195, and/or one or more of the sensor modules 160.

The network manager 180 is a device or component that controls all or aportion of a communication network that includes the controller 104 ofthe light fixture 102, additional light fixtures, and the sensor modules160 that are communicably coupled to the controller 104. The networkmanager 180 can be substantially similar to the controller 104.Alternatively, the network manager 180 can include one or more of anumber of features in addition to, or altered from, the features of thecontroller 104 described below. As described herein, communication withthe network manager 180 can include communicating with one or more othercomponents (e.g., another light fixture) of the system 100. In such acase, the network manager 180 can facilitate such communication.

The power source 195 of the system 100 provides AC mains or some otherform of power to the light fixture 102, as well as to one or more othercomponents (e.g., the network manager 180) of the system 100. The powersource 195 can include one or more of a number of components. Examplesof such components can include, but are not limited to, an electricalconductor, a coupling feature (e.g., an electrical connector), atransformer, an inductor, a resistor, a capacitor, a diode, atransistor, and a fuse. The power source 195 can be, or include, forexample, a wall outlet, an energy storage device (e.g. a battery, asupercapacitor), a circuit breaker, and/or an independent source ofgeneration (e.g., a photovoltaic solar generation system). The powersource 195 can also include one or more components (e.g., a switch, arelay, a controller) that allow the power source 195 to communicate withand/or follow instructions from the user 150, the controller 104, and/orthe network manager 180.

An optional energy storage device 179 can be any of a number ofrechargeable batteries or similar storage devices that are configured tocharge using some source of power (e.g., the primary power provided tothe light fixture, ultraviolet rays). The energy storage device 179 canuse one or more of any type of storage technology, including but notlimited to a battery, a flywheel, an ultracapacitor, and asupercapacitor. If the energy storage device 179 includes a battery, thebattery technology can vary, including but not limited to lithium ion,nickel-cadmium, lead/acid, solid state, graphite anode, titaniumdioxide, nickel cadmium, nickel metal hydride, nickel iron, alkaline,and lithium polymer. In some cases, one or more of the energy storagedevices 179 charge using a different level and/or type of power relativeto the level and type of power of the primary power. In such a case, thepower supply 179 can convert, invert, transform, and/or otherwisemanipulate the primary power to the level and type of power used tocharge the energy storage devices 179. There can be any number of energystorage devices 179.

The optional antenna assembly 139 can be any device that is used toimprove the ability of the light fixture 102 (or portion thereof, suchas the transceiver 124) to send and/or receive signals with the networkmanager 180, the power source 195, the user 150, another light fixture,a remote sensor 160, and/or some other device within the lighting system100. The antenna assembly 139 can be used to convert electrical powerinto radio waves and/or convert radio waves into electrical power. Theantenna assembly 139 can be disposed at any location relative to thehousing 103 of the light fixture 102, including but not limited to onthe housing 103, remote from the housing 103, within the housing 103, orany suitable combination thereof.

In certain example embodiments, the antenna assembly 139 includes one ormore of a number of components. Such components can include, but are notlimited to, a balun, a block upconverter, a cable (e.g., a coaxial cableor other form of communication link 105), a counterpoise (a type ofground system), a feed, a receiver, a passive radiator, a feed line, arotator, a tuner, a transmitter, a low-noise block downconverter, and atwin lead. Portions of the antenna assembly 139 can be in directcommunication with, or can be shared with, one or more components (e.g.,the communications module 108) of the controller 104. For example, thetransceiver 124 of the controller 104 can be in direct communicationwith the antenna assembly 139.

A sensor module 160 can be directly coupled to the housing 103 (a typeof enclosure) of the light fixture 102, as shown in FIGS. 3-16H below.Alternatively, a sensor module 160 can be coupled to another enclosure(e.g., the housing of another light fixture, a junction box) within thesystem 100, as shown in FIG. 17 below, The one or more sensor modules160 can include any type of sensing device that measure one or moreparameters. Examples of types of sensors of a sensor module 160 caninclude, but are not limited to, a passive infrared sensor, a photocell,a pressure sensor, an air flow monitor, a gas detector, and a resistancetemperature detector. A parameter that can be measured by a sensormodule 160 can include, but is not limited to, motion, an amount ofambient light, temperature within the housing 103 of the light fixture102, humidity within the housing 103 of the light fixture 102, airquality within the housing 103 of the light fixture 102, vibration,occupancy of a space, pressure, air flow, smoke (as from a fire),temperature (e.g., excessive heat, excessive cold, an ambienttemperature) outside the housing 103 of the light fixture 102.

Example sensor modules 160 described herein can include one or more of anumber of components. For example, a sensor module 160 can have ahousing that forms a cavity, inside of which can be disposed one or morecomponents that can include, but are not limited to, a sensor, a circuitboard, a mount. Coupled to the housing of a sensor module 160 can be abezel, a lens, and/or any of a number of other components. The housingof a sensor module 160 can also include an extension with one or more ofa number of coupling features. Various embodiments of the example sensormodule 160 are provided in the figures below.

In some cases, the parameter or parameters measured by a sensor module160 can be used to operate one or more light sources 142 of the lightfixture 102. Each sensor module 160 can use one or more of a number ofcommunication protocols. A sensor module 160 can be associated with thelight fixture 102 or another light fixture in the system 100. Examplesensor modules 160 are disposed in the ambient environment and arecoupled to the housing 103 of the light fixture 102. In some cases, asensor module 160 can additionally be located within the housing 103 ofthe light fixture 102.

In certain example embodiments, a sensor module 160 can include anenergy storage device (e.g., a battery) that is used to provide power,at least in part, to some or all of the sensor module 160. In such acase, the energy storage device can be the same as, or independent of,the energy storage device 179, described above, of the light fixture102. The energy storage device of the sensor module 160 can operate atall time or when a primary source of power to the light fixture 102 isinterrupted. Further, a sensor module 160 can utilize or include one ormore components (e.g., memory 122, storage repository 130, transceiver124) found in the controller 104. In such a case, the controller 104 canprovide the functionality of these components used by the sensor module160. Alternatively, the sensor module 160 can include, either on its ownor in shared responsibility with the controller 104, one or more of thecomponents of the controller 104. In such a case, the sensor module 160can correspond to a computer system as described below with regard toFIG. 2.

When the system 100 (or at least a sensor module 160) is located in ahazardous environment, the sensor module 160 can be intrinsically safe.As used herein, the term “intrinsically safe” refers to a device (e.g.,a sensor described herein) that is placed in a hazardous environment. Tobe intrinsically safe, the device uses a limited amount of electricalenergy so that sparks cannot occur from a short circuit or failures thatcan cause an explosive atmosphere found in hazardous environments toignite. A safety barrier 136 is commonly used with an intrinsically safedevice, where the safety barrier 136 limits the amount of powerdelivered to the sensor or other device to reduce the risk of explosion,fire, or other adverse condition that can be caused by high amounts ofpower in the hazardous environment. An adverse condition can also be anabnormal condition that is not potentially catastrophic in nature.

The optional safety barrier 136 can provide protection (e.g.,overvoltage protection, overcurrent protection) for one or morecomponents of the light fixture 102 when the light fixture 102 islocated in a hazardous environment. For example, the safety barrier 136can limit the amount of power delivered to the power module 112 of thecontroller 104 to reduce the risk of explosion, fire, or other adversecondition that can be caused by high amounts of power in the hazardousenvironment. The safety barrier 136 can be a required component when thelight fixture 102 is located in a hazardous environment. For example,IEC 60079-11 requires that power must be less than 1.3 W during a faultcondition. The safety barrier 136 can include one or more of a number ofsingle or multiple discrete components (e.g., capacitor, inductor,transistor, diode, resistor, fuse), and/or a microprocessor. Forexample, a safety barrier 136 can be a capacitive barrier.

The user 150, the network manager 180, the power source 195, and/or thesensor modules 160 can interact with the controller 104 of the lightfixture 102 using the application interface 126 in accordance with oneor more example embodiments. Specifically, the application interface 126of the controller 104 receives data (e.g., information, communications,instructions, updates to firmware) from and sends data (e.g.,information, communications, instructions) to the user 150, the networkmanager 180, the power source 195, and/or each sensor module 160. Theuser 150, the network manager 180, the power source 195, and/or eachsensor module 160 can include an interface to receive data from and senddata to the controller 104 in certain example embodiments. Examples ofsuch an interface can include, but are not limited to, a graphical userinterface, a touchscreen, an application programming interface, akeyboard, a monitor, a mouse, a web service, a data protocol adapter,some other hardware and/or software, or any suitable combinationthereof.

The controller 104, the user 150, the network manager 180, the powersource 195, and/or the sensor modules 160 can use their own system orshare a system in certain example embodiments. Such a system can be, orcontain a form of, an Internet-based or an intranet-based computersystem that is capable of communicating with various software. Acomputer system includes any type of computing device and/orcommunication device, including but not limited to the controller 104.Examples of such a system can include, but are not limited to, a desktopcomputer with a Local Area Network (LAN), a Wide Area Network (WAN),Internet or intranet access, a laptop computer with LAN, WAN, Internetor intranet access, a smart phone, a server, a server farm, an androiddevice (or equivalent), a tablet, smartphones, and a personal digitalassistant (PDA). Such a system can correspond to a computer system asdescribed below with regard to FIG. 2.

Further, as discussed above, such a system can have correspondingsoftware (e.g., user software, sensor software, controller software,network manager software). The software can execute on the same or aseparate device (e.g., a server, mainframe, desktop personal computer(PC), laptop, PDA, television, cable box, satellite box, kiosk,telephone, mobile phone, or other computing devices) and can be coupledby the communication network (e.g., Internet, Intranet, Extranet, LAN,WAN, or other network communication methods) and/or communicationchannels, with wire and/or wireless segments according to some exampleembodiments. The software of one system can be a part of, or operateseparately but in conjunction with, the software of another systemwithin the system 100.

The light fixture 102 can include a housing 103. The housing 103 caninclude at least one wall that forms a cavity 101. In some cases, thehousing can be designed to comply with any applicable standards so thatthe light fixture 102 can be located in a particular environment (e.g.,a hazardous environment). For example, if the light fixture 102 islocated in an explosive environment, the housing 103 can beexplosion-proof. According to applicable industry standards, anexplosion-proof enclosure is an enclosure that is configured to containan explosion that originates inside, or can propagate through, theenclosure.

Continuing with this example, the explosion-proof enclosure, as aDivision 1 enclosure, is configured to allow gases from inside theenclosure to escape across joints of the enclosure and cool as the gasesexit the explosion-proof enclosure. The joints are also known as flamepaths and exist where two surfaces meet and provide a path, from insidethe explosion-proof enclosure to outside the explosion-proof enclosure,along which one or more gases may travel. A joint may be a mating of anytwo or more surfaces. Each surface may be any type of surface, includingbut not limited to a flat surface, a threaded surface, and a serratedsurface. Alternatively, if the explosion-proof enclosure is a Division 2enclosure, then it can be gasketed to prohibit/reduce the likelihood ofingress of hazardous gas to the enclosure, but would not have any“flame-paths” should the gas get in and become ignited.

The housing 103 of the light fixture 102 can be used to house one ormore components of the light fixture 102, including one or morecomponents of the controller 104. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, thecontroller 104 (which in this case includes the control engine 106, thecommunication module 108, the real-time clock 110, the energy meteringmodule 111, the power module 112, the storage repository 130, thehardware processor 120, the memory 122, the transceiver 124, theapplication interface 126, and the optional security module 128), thepower supply 140, and the light sources 142 are disposed in the cavity101 formed by the housing 103. In alternative embodiments, any one ormore of these or other components of the light fixture 102 can bedisposed on the housing 103 and/or remotely from the housing 103.

The storage repository 130 can be a persistent storage device (or set ofdevices) that stores software and data used to assist the controller 104in communicating with the user 150, the network manager 180, the powersource 195, and one or more sensor modules 160 within the system 100. Inone or more example embodiments, the storage repository 130 stores oneor more communication protocols 132, algorithms 133, and stored data134. The communication protocols 132 can be any of a number of protocolsthat are used to send and/or receive data between the controller 104 andthe user 150, the network manager 180, the power source 195, and one ormore sensor modules 160. One or more of the communication protocols 132can be a time-synchronized protocol. Examples of such time-synchronizedprotocols can include, but are not limited to, a highway addressableremote transducer (HART) protocol, a wirelessHART protocol, and anInternational Society of Automation (ISA) 100 protocol. In this way, oneor more of the communication protocols 132 can provide a layer ofsecurity to the data transferred within the system 100.

The algorithms 133 can be any procedures (e.g., a series of methodsteps), formulas, logic steps, mathematical models, forecasts,simulations, and/or other similar operational procedures that thecontrol engine 106 of the controller 104 follows based on certainconditions at a point in time. An example of an algorithm 133 ismeasuring (using the energy metering module 111), storing (using thestored data 134 in the storage repository 130), and evaluating thecurrent and voltage delivered to and delivered by the power supply 140over time.

Algorithms 133 can be focused on certain components of the light fixture102. For example, one or more algorithms 133 can facilitatecommunication between a sensor module 160 and the control engine 106 ofthe controller 104. As a specific example, one or more algorithms 133can be used by the control engine 106 to instruct a sensor module 160 tomeasure a parameter, for the sensor module 160 to send the measurementto the control engine 106, for the control engine 106 to analyze themeasurement, (stored as stored data 134) and for the control engine 106to take an action (e.g., instruct, using a communication protocol 132,one or more other components of the light fixture 102 to operate) basedon the result (stored as stored data 134) of the analysis.

As another example, one or more algorithms 133 can facilitatecommunication between an antenna 139 and the control engine 106 of thecontroller 104. As a specific example, one or more algorithms 133 can beused by the control engine 106 to receive (using a communicationprotocol 132) a signal received by the antenna 139, for the controlengine 106 to analyze the signal, and for the control engine 106 to takean action (e.g., instruct one or more other components of the lightfixture 102 to operate) based on the result of the analysis. As anotherspecific example, one or more algorithms 133 can be used by the controlengine 106 to determine that a communication to a device external to thelight fixture 102 needs to be sent, and to send a communication signal(using a communication protocol 132 and saved as stored data 134) to theantenna 139.

One or more algorithms 133 can be used for more advanced functions. Forexample, some algorithms 133 can be focused on prognostic and healthmonitoring of the light fixture 102. As an example, there can be one ormore algorithms 133 that focus on the integrity of the housing 103 ofthe light fixture 102. One such example of an algorithm 133 ispredicting the life of a gasket (disposed, for example, between a coverand a body of the housing 103) of the light fixture 102 based on thetemperature within the cavity 101 (as measured by a sensor module 160and stored as stored data 134) and the characteristics of the gasketmaterial (stored as stored data 134).

One or more algorithms 133 used in example embodiments can also be usedto detect, in real time, instantaneous failures of one or morecomponents of the light fixture 102. For example, if a power spike(e.g., a fault) at the power supply 140 is measured by the energymetering module 111, the control engine 106 can use one or morealgorithms 133 to instantaneously, in real time, compare the excessivelyhigh voltage reading with a threshold value, determine that the voltagemeasurement represents a fault, and takes immediate action (e.g., opensa switch to stop receiving power from the source of the fault, uses asecondary source of power to maintain the operation of the light fixture102) to minimize damage to the components of the light fixture 102 thatcan be caused by the fault and maintain a safe operating environment(e.g., allow the light sources 142 to continue to receive power tocontinue emitting light) in the area of the light fixture 102.

Other algorithms 133 can be directed to the light sources 142 of thelight fixture 102. For example, lumen depreciation data collected underthe LM-80 standard, developed by the IES, and published by LED packagemanufacturers can be stored as stored data 134 and compared withtemperatures (as measured by one or more sensor modules 160 and storedas stored data 134) of light sources 142 of the light fixture 102 to seeif a correlation can be developed. As another example, when one or morelight sources 142 of the light fixture 102 are determined to beginfailing, the algorithm 133 can direct the control engine 106 to generatean alarm for predictive maintenance.

As example, an algorithm 133 can continuously monitor the current (asmeasured by the energy metering module 111 and stored as stored data134) output by the power supply 140 and the reference current. Inaddition to the dimmer setting, the algorithm can detect variations ofthe output current of the power supply 140 and the reference current fora given dimmer setting and predict failure of the power supply 140. Insuch a case, the direction of the variation can dictate whether there isa short circuit or an open circuit involved.

Another example algorithm 133 can measure and analyze the current outputand current ripple of the power supply 140 over time. If the currentripple relative to the current output exceeds a threshold value, thenthe power supply 140 can be classified as failed. Yet another examplealgorithm 133 can monitor a temperature of a critical component (e.g.,electrolytic capacitors, Controller IC, Blocking diode, TVS) of thepower supply 140 over time. The estimated remaining life of the powersupply 140 can be based on degradation curves of those components andthreshold values established for those components.

Still another example algorithm 133 can measure and analyze theequivalent series resistance of the output electrolytic capacitors ofthe power supply 140 over time. An alarm can be generated by the controlengine 106 when the resistance exceeds a threshold value, indicatingfailure of the power supply 140. Yet another example algorithm 133 canbe to measure and analyze the magnitude and number of surges (ringingwaves) that the power supply 140 is subjected to over time. Thealgorithm 133 can predict the expected useful life of the power supply140 based on a threshold value. Still another example algorithm 133 canmeasure and analyze the efficiency of the power supply 140 over time. Analarm can be generated by the control engine 106 when the efficiency ofthe power supply 140 falls below a threshold value, indicating failureof the power supply 140.

An algorithm 133 can be based on stress models. For example, analgorithm 133 can develop a stress versus life relationship usingaccelerated life testing for the light fixture 102 or a componentthereof. One instance would be an actual lifetime temperature of thepower supply 140 versus a modeled or estimated temperature profile ofthe power supply 140. Another instance would be using LM-80 test datadeveloped for the light sources 142.

As another example, an algorithm 133 can measure and analyze real-timeapplication stress conditions of the light fixture 102 or componentsthereof over time and use developed models to estimate the life of thelight fixture or components thereof. In such a case, mathematical modelscan be developed using one or more mathematical theories (e.g.,Arrhenius theory, Palmgran-Miner Rules) to predict useful life of thelight fixture 102 or components thereof under real stress conditions. Asyet another example, an algorithm 133 can use predicted values andactual data to estimate the remaining life of the light fixture 102 orcomponents thereof.

Stored data 134 can be any data associated with the light fixture 102(including other light fixtures and/or any components thereof), anymeasurements taken by the sensor modules 160, measurements taken by theenergy metering module 111, threshold values, results of previously runor calculated algorithms, and/or any other suitable data. Such data canbe any type of data, including but not limited to historical data forthe light fixture 102, historical data for other light fixtures,calculations, measurements taken by the energy metering module 111, andmeasurements taken by one or more sensor modules 160. The stored data134 can be associated with some measurement of time derived, forexample, from the real-time clock 110.

Examples of a storage repository 130 can include, but are not limitedto, a database (or a number of databases), a file system, a hard drive,flash memory, some other form of solid state data storage, or anysuitable combination thereof. The storage repository 130 can be locatedon multiple physical machines, each storing all or a portion of thecommunication protocols 132, the algorithms 133, and/or the stored data134 according to some example embodiments. Each storage unit or devicecan be physically located in the same or in a different geographiclocation.

The storage repository 130 can be operatively connected to the controlengine 106. In one or more example embodiments, the control engine 106includes functionality to communicate with the user 150, the networkmanager 180, the power source 195, and the sensor modules 160 in thesystem 100. More specifically, the control engine 106 sends informationto and/or receives information from the storage repository 130 in orderto communicate with the user 150, the network manager 180, the powersource 195, and the sensor modules 160. As discussed below, the storagerepository 130 can also be operatively connected to the communicationmodule 108 in certain example embodiments.

In certain example embodiments, the control engine 106 of the controller104 controls the operation of one or more components (e.g., thecommunication module 108, the real-time clock 110, the transceiver 124)of the controller 104. For example, the control engine 106 can activatethe communication module 108 when the communication module 108 is in“sleep” mode and when the communication module 108 is needed to senddata received from another component (e.g., a sensor module 160, theuser 150) in the system 100.

As another example, the control engine 106 can acquire the current timeusing the real-time clock 110. The real time clock 110 can enable thecontroller 104 to control the light fixture 102 even when the controller104 has no communication with the network manager 180. As yet anotherexample, the control engine 106 can direct the energy metering module111 to measure and send power consumption information of the lightfixture 102 to the network manager 180. In some cases, the controlengine 106 of the controller 104 can generate and send a dimming signal(e.g., 0-10 V DC) to the power supply 140, which causes the power supply140 to adjust the light output of the light sources 142.

The control engine 106 of the controller 104 can communicate with one ormore of the sensor modules 160 and make determinations based onmeasurements made by the sensor modules 160. For example, the controlengine 106 can use one or more algorithms 133 to facilitatecommunication with a sensor module 160. As a specific example, thecontrol engine 160 can use one or more algorithms 133 to instruct asensor module 160 to measure a parameter, for the sensor module 160 tosend the measurement to the control engine 106, for the control engine106 to analyze the measurement, (stored as stored data 134) and for thecontrol engine 106 to take an action (e.g., instruct, using acommunication protocol 132, one or more other components of the lightfixture 102 to operate) based on the result (stored as stored data 134)of the analysis.

The control engine 106 can also use the antenna assembly 139 to sendand/or receive communications. As a specific example, the control engine106 can use one or more algorithms 133 to receive (using a communicationprotocol 132) a signal received by the antenna assembly 139, for thecontrol engine 106 to analyze the signal, and for the control engine 106to take an action (e.g., instruct one or more other components of thelight fixture 102 to operate) based on the result of the analysis. Asanother specific example, the control engine 106 can use one or morealgorithms 133 to determine that a communication to a device external tothe light fixture 102 needs to be sent, and to send a communicationsignal (using a communication protocol 132 and saved as stored data 134)to the antenna assembly 139.

The control engine 106 can also use a sensor module 160 to perform moreadvanced functions. For example, the control engine 106 can beconfigured to perform a number of functions that help prognosticate andmonitor the health of the light fixture 102 (or components thereof),either continually or on a periodic basis, using a sensor module 160. Inother words, the control engine 106 analyzes one or more factors thatcan affect the longevity of one or more components of the light fixture102 using a sensor module 160. For example, the control engine 106 canexecute any of the algorithms 133 stored in the storage repository 130.As a specific example, the control engine 106 can measure (using theenergy metering module 111), store (as stored data 134 in the storagerepository 130), and evaluate, using an algorithm 133, the current andvoltage delivered to and delivered by the power supply 140 over time.

As another specific example, the control engine 106 can use one or morealgorithms 133 that focus on certain components of the light fixture102. For example, the control engine 106 can use one or more algorithms133 that focus on the integrity of the housing 103 of the light fixture102. As stated above, one such example of an algorithm 133 is predictingthe life of a gasket (disposed, for example, between a cover and a bodyof the housing 103) of the light fixture 102 based on the temperaturewithin the cavity 101 (as measured by a sensor module 160 and stored asstored data 134) and the characteristics of the gasket material (storedas stored data 134). In such a case, the control engine 106 can controlthe sensor modules 160 that perform the measurements.

The control engine 106 can also detect, in real time, instantaneousfailures of one or more components of the light fixture 102. Forexample, if a power spike (e.g., a fault) at the power supply 140 ismeasured by the energy metering module 111, the control engine 106 caninstantaneously, in real time, compare the excessively high voltagereading with a threshold value, determine that the voltage measurementrepresents a fault, and takes immediate action (e.g., opens a switch tostop receiving power from the source of the fault, uses a secondarysource of power to maintain the operation of the light fixture 102) tominimize damage to the components of the light fixture 102 that can becaused by the fault and maintain a safe operating environment (e.g.,allow the light sources 142 to continue to receive power to continueemitting light) in the area of the light fixture 102.

The control engine 106 can also collect data, under the LM-80 standard,of one or more light sources 142, store the data as stored data 134, andcompare this data with temperatures (as measured by one or more sensormodules 160 and stored as stored data 134) of light sources 142 of thelight fixture 102 to see if a correlation can be developed. Forinstance, data generated by a component manufacturer (e.g., informationabout the light source 142 listed on the packaging for the light fixture102) using a reliability testing protocols (e.g., IES LM-80) can be usedto generate stress versus life correlation models. Subsequently, thosemodels can be stored in the storage repository 130 as algorithms 133 bythe control engine 106. The real-time stress information collected inthe application environment using multiple sensor modules 160 can beused by the control engine 106, along with stress-life models stored instorage repository 130, to predict the useful life of the light fixture102 and/or components thereof. As another example, the control engine106 can determine whether one or more light sources 142 of the lightfixture 102 are failing and generate an alarm for predictivemaintenance.

As another example, the control engine 106 can be configured tocontinuously monitor the current (as measured by the energy meteringmodule 111 and stored as stored data 134) output by the power supply 140and the reference current. The control engine 106 can also determine thedimmer setting, and so detect variations of the output current of thepower supply 140 and the reference current for a given dimmer settingand predict failure of the power supply 140. In such a case, thedirection of the variation can dictate whether there is a short circuitor an open circuit involved. The control engine 106 can also monitor thesensor module 160 to ensure that it is working properly and send anotification (e.g., to a user 150, to the network manager 180) when thecontrol engine 106 determines that the sensor module 160 is failing orhas failed.

As yet another example, the control engine 106 can measure (using one ormore sensor modules 160) and analyze the current output and currentripple of the power supply 140 over time. If the current ripple (e.g.,peak-to-peak ripple current, RMS current) relative to the current outputexceeds a threshold value, then the control engine 106 can classify thepower supply 140 as failed. As still another example, the PHM engine 106can monitor a temperature (using one or more sensor modules 160) of acritical component (e.g., electrolytic capacitors, Controller IC,Blocking diode, TVS) of the power supply 140 over time. The controlengine 106 can estimate the remaining life of the power supply 140 basedon degradation curves of those components and threshold valuesestablished for those components.

The control engine 106 can provide control, communication, and/or othersimilar signals to the user 150, the network manager 180, the powersource 195, and one or more of the sensor modules 160. Similarly, thecontrol engine 106 can receive control, communication, and/or othersimilar signals from the user 150, the network manager 180, the powersource 195, and one or more of the sensor modules 160. The controlengine 106 can control each sensor module 160 automatically (forexample, based on one or more algorithms stored in the control engine106) and/or based on control, communication, and/or other similarsignals received from another device through a communication link 105.The control engine 106 may include a printed circuit board, upon whichthe hardware processor 120 and/or one or more discrete components of thecontroller 104 are positioned.

In certain embodiments, the control engine 106 of the controller 104 cancommunicate with one or more components of a system external to thesystem 100. For example, the control engine 106 can interact with aninventory management system by ordering a light fixture (or one or morecomponents thereof) to replace the light fixture 102 (or one or morecomponents thereof) that the control engine 106 has determined to failor be failing. As another example, the control engine 106 can interactwith a workforce scheduling system by scheduling a maintenance crew torepair or replace the light fixture 102 (or portion thereof) when thecontrol engine 106 determines that the light fixture 102 or portionthereof requires maintenance or replacement. In this way, the controller104 is capable of performing a number of functions beyond what couldreasonably be considered a routine task.

In certain example embodiments, the control engine 106 can include aninterface that enables the control engine 106 to communicate with one ormore components (e.g., power supply 140) of the light fixture 102. Forexample, if the power supply 140 of the light fixture 102 operates underIEC Standard 62386, then the power supply 140 can have a serialcommunication interface that will transfer data (e.g., stored data 134)measured by the sensor modules 160. In such a case, the control engine106 can also include a serial interface to enable communication with thepower supply 140 within the light fixture 102. Such an interface canoperate in conjunction with, or independently of, the communicationprotocols 132 used to communicate between the controller 104 and theuser 150, the network manager 180, the power source 195, and the sensormodules 160.

The control engine 106 (or other components of the controller 104) canalso include one or more hardware components and/or software elements toperform its functions. Such components can include, but are not limitedto, a universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART), a serialperipheral interface (SPI), a direct-attached capacity (DAC) storagedevice, an analog-to-digital converter, an inter-integrated circuit(I²C), and a pulse width modulator (PWM).

The communication module 108 of the controller 104 determines andimplements the communication protocol (e.g., from the communicationprotocols 132 of the storage repository 130) that is used when thecontrol engine 106 communicates with (e.g., sends signals to, receivessignals from) the user 150, the network manager 180, the power source195, and/or one or more of the sensor modules 160. In some cases, thecommunication module 108 accesses the stored data 134 to determine whichcommunication protocol is used to communicate with the sensor module 160associated with the stored data 134. In addition, the communicationmodule 108 can interpret the communication protocol of a communicationreceived by the controller 104 so that the control engine 106 caninterpret the communication.

The communication module 108 can send and receive data between thenetwork manager 180, the power source 195, the sensor modules 160,and/or the users 150 and the controller 104. The communication module108 can send and/or receive data in a given format that follows aparticular communication protocol 132. The control engine 106 caninterpret the data packet received from the communication module 108using the communication protocol 132 information stored in the storagerepository 130. The control engine 106 can also facilitate the datatransfer between one or more sensor modules 160 and the network manager180 or a user 150 by converting the data into a format understood by thecommunication module 108.

The communication module 108 can send data (e.g., communicationprotocols 132, algorithms 133, stored data 134, operational information,alarms) directly to and/or retrieve data directly from the storagerepository 130. Alternatively, the control engine 106 can facilitate thetransfer of data between the communication module 108 and the storagerepository 130. The communication module 108 can also provide encryptionto data that is sent by the controller 104 and decryption to data thatis received by the controller 104. The communication module 108 can alsoprovide one or more of a number of other services with respect to datasent from and received by the controller 104. Such services can include,but are not limited to, data packet routing information and proceduresto follow in the event of data interruption.

The real-time clock 110 of the controller 104 can track clock time,intervals of time, an amount of time, and/or any other measure of time.The real-time clock 110 can also count the number of occurrences of anevent, whether with or without respect to time. Alternatively, thecontrol engine 106 can perform the counting function. The real-timeclock 110 is able to track multiple time measurements concurrently. Thereal-time clock 110 can track time periods based on an instructionreceived from the control engine 106, based on an instruction receivedfrom the user 150, based on an instruction programmed in the softwarefor the controller 104, based on some other condition or from some othercomponent, or from any combination thereof.

The real-time clock 110 can be configured to track time when there is nopower delivered to the controller 104 (e.g., the power module 112malfunctions) using, for example, a super capacitor or a battery backup.In such a case, when there is a resumption of power delivery to thecontroller 104, the real-time clock 110 can communicate any aspect oftime to the controller 104. In such a case, the real-time clock 110 caninclude one or more of a number of components (e.g., a super capacitor,an integrated circuit) to perform these functions.

The energy metering module 111 of the controller 104 measures one ormore components of power (e.g., current, voltage, resistance, VARs,watts) at one or more points within the light fixture 102. The energymetering module 111 can include any of a number of measuring devices andrelated devices, including but not limited to a voltmeter, an ammeter, apower meter, an ohmmeter, a current transformer, a potentialtransformer, and electrical wiring. The energy metering module 111 canmeasure a component of power continuously, periodically, based on theoccurrence of an event, based on a command received from the controlmodule 106, and/or based on some other factor. For purposes herein, theenergy metering module 111 can be considered a type of sensor (e.g.,sensor module 160). In this way, a component of power measured by theenergy metering module 111 can be considered a parameter herein.

The power module 112 of the controller 104 provides power to one or moreother components (e.g., real-time clock 110, control engine 106) of thecontroller 104. In addition, in certain example embodiments, the powermodule 112 can provide power to the power supply 140 of the lightfixture 102. The power module 112 can include one or more of a number ofsingle or multiple discrete components (e.g., transistor, diode,resistor), and/or a microprocessor. The power module 112 may include aprinted circuit board, upon which the microprocessor and/or one or morediscrete components are positioned. In some cases, the power module 112can include one or more components that allow the power module 112 tomeasure one or more elements of power (e.g., voltage, current) that isdelivered to and/or sent from the power module 112, Alternatively, thecontroller 104 can include a power metering module (not shown) tomeasure one or more elements of power that flows into, out of, and/orwithin the controller 104. Such a power metering module can also beconsidered a type of sensor (e.g., sensor module 160) herein.

The power module 112 can include one or more components (e.g., atransformer, a diode bridge, an inverter, a converter) that receivespower (for example, through an electrical cable) from a source externalto the light fixture 102 and generates power of a type (e.g.,alternating current, direct current) and level (e.g., 12V, 24V, 120V)that can be used by the other components of the controller 104 and/or bythe power supply 140. The power module 112 can use a closed control loopto maintain a preconfigured voltage or current with a tight tolerance atthe output. The power module 112 can also protect the rest of theelectronics (e.g., hardware processor 120, transceiver 124) in the lightfixture 102 from surges generated in the line.

In addition, or in the alternative, the power module 112 can be a sourceof power in itself to provide signals to the other components of thecontroller 104 and/or the power supply 140. For example, the powermodule 112 can be a battery. As another example, the power module 112can be a localized photovoltaic power system. The power module 112 canalso have sufficient isolation in the associated components of the powermodule 112 (e.g., transformers, opto-couplers, current and voltagelimiting devices) so that the power module 112 is certified to providepower to an intrinsically safe circuit.

In certain example embodiments, the power module 112 of the controller104 can also provide power and/or control signals, directly orindirectly, to one or more of the sensor modules 160. In such a case,the control engine 106 can direct the power generated by the powermodule 112 to the sensor modules 160 and/or the power supply 140 of thelight fixture 102. In this way, power can be conserved by sending powerto the sensor modules 160 and/or the power supply 140 of the lightfixture 102 when those devices need power, as determined by the controlengine 106.

The hardware processor 120 of the controller 104 executes software,algorithms, and firmware in accordance with one or more exampleembodiments. Specifically, the hardware processor 120 can executesoftware on the control engine 106 or any other portion of thecontroller 104, as well as software used by the user 150, the networkmanager 180, the power source 195, and/or one or more of the sensormodules 160. The hardware processor 120 can be an integrated circuit, acentral processing unit, a multi-core processing chip, SoC, a multi-chipmodule including multiple multi-core processing chips, or other hardwareprocessor in one or more example embodiments. The hardware processor 120is known by other names, including but not limited to a computerprocessor, a microprocessor, and a multi-core processor.

In one or more example embodiments, the hardware processor 120 executessoftware instructions stored in memory 122. The memory 122 includes oneor more cache memories, main memory, and/or any other suitable type ofmemory. The memory 122 can include volatile and/or non-volatile memory.The memory 122 is discretely located within the controller 104 relativeto the hardware processor 120 according to some example embodiments. Incertain configurations, the memory 122 can be integrated with thehardware processor 120.

In certain example embodiments, the controller 104 does not include ahardware processor 120. In such a case, the controller 104 can include,as an example, one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGA), one ormore insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs), one or more integratedcircuits (ICs). Using FPGAs, IGBTs, ICs, and/or other similar devicesknown in the art allows the controller 104 (or portions thereof) to beprogrammable and function according to certain logic rules andthresholds without the use of a hardware processor. Alternatively,FPGAs, IGBTs, ICs, and/or similar devices can be used in conjunctionwith one or more hardware processors 120.

The transceiver 124 of the controller 104 can send and/or receivecontrol and/or communication signals. Specifically, the transceiver 124can be used to transfer data between the controller 104 and the user150, the network manager 180, the power source 195, and/or the sensormodules 160. The transceiver 124 can use wired and/or wirelesstechnology. The transceiver 124 can be configured in such a way that thecontrol and/or communication signals sent and/or received by thetransceiver 124 can be received and/or sent by another transceiver thatis part of the user 150, the network manager 180, the power source 195,and/or the sensor modules 160. The transceiver 124 can use any of anumber of signal types, including but not limited to radio signals.

When the transceiver 124 uses wireless technology, any type of wirelesstechnology can be used by the transceiver 124 in sending and receivingsignals. Such wireless technology can include, but is not limited to,Wi-Fi, visible light communication, cellular networking, and Bluetooth.The transceiver 124 can use one or more of any number of suitablecommunication protocols (e.g., ISA100, HART) when sending and/orreceiving signals. Such communication protocols can be stored in thecommunication protocols 132 of the storage repository 130. Further, anytransceiver information for the user 150, the network manager 180, thepower source 195, and/or the sensor modules 160 can be part of thestored data 134 (or similar areas) of the storage repository 130.

Optionally, in one or more example embodiments, the security module 128secures interactions between the controller 104, the user 150, thenetwork manager 180, the power source 195, and/or the sensor modules160. More specifically, the security module 128 authenticatescommunication from software based on security keys verifying theidentity of the source of the communication. For example, user softwaremay be associated with a security key enabling the software of the user150 to interact with the controller 104 and/or the sensor modules 160.Further, the security module 128 can restrict receipt of information,requests for information, and/or access to information in some exampleembodiments.

As mentioned above, aside from the controller 104 and its components,the light fixture 102 can include a power supply 140 and one or morelight sources 142. The light sources 142 of the light fixture 102 aredevices and/or components typically found in a light fixture to allowthe light fixture 102 to operate. The light fixture 102 can have one ormore of any number and/or type of light sources 142. Examples of suchlight sources 142 can include, but are not limited to, a local controlmodule, a light source, a light engine, a heat sink, an electricalconductor or electrical cable, a terminal block, a lens, a diffuser, areflector, an air moving device, a baffle, a dimmer, and a circuitboard. A light source 142 can use any type of lighting technology,including but not limited to LED, incandescent, sodium vapor, andfluorescent.

The power supply 140 of the light fixture 102 provides power to one ormore of the light sources 142. The power supply 140 can be called by anyof a number of other names, including but not limited to a driver, a LEDdriver, and a ballast. The power supply 140 can be substantially thesame as, or different than, the power module 112 of the controller 104.The power supply 140 can include one or more of a number of single ormultiple discrete components (e.g., transistor, diode, resistor), and/ora microprocessor. The power supply 140 may include a printed circuitboard, upon which the microprocessor and/or one or more discretecomponents are positioned, and/or a dimmer.

The power supply 140 can include one or more components (e.g., atransformer, a diode bridge, an inverter, a converter) that receivespower (for example, through an electrical cable) from the power module112 of the controller 104 and generates power of a type (e.g.,alternating current, direct current) and level (e.g., 12V, 24V, 120V)that can be used by the light sources 142. In addition, or in thealternative, the power supply 140 can receive power from a sourceexternal to the light fixture 102. In addition, or in the alternative,the power supply 140 can be a source of power in itself. For example,the power supply 140 can be a battery, a localized photovoltaic powersystem, or some other source of independent power.

As stated above, the light fixture 102 can be placed in any of a numberof environments. In such a case, the housing 103 of the light fixture102 can be configured to comply with applicable standards for any of anumber of environments. For example, the housing 103 of a light fixture102 can be rated as a Division 1 or a Division 2 enclosure under NECstandards. Similarly, any of the sensor modules 160 or other devicescommunicably coupled to the light fixture 102 can be configured tocomply with applicable standards for any of a number of environments.For example, a sensor module 160 can be rated as a Division 1 or aDivision 2 enclosure under NEC standards.

The sensor module 160 can be configured to comply with one or more otherapplicable standards. For example, an example sensor module 160 can bedesigned to withstand a certain minimum physical impact when coupled tothe housing 103 of the light fixture 102. In such a case, the sensormodule 160 remains coupled to the housing 103 of the light fixture 102after such an impact, and also continues to function properly after suchan impact. As a specific example, a sensor module 160 coupled to thehousing 103 of the light fixture 102 can comply with UL844 by being ableto withstand an impact having at least 6.8 Joules of force.

FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of a computing device 218 thatimplements one or more of the various techniques described herein, andwhich is representative, in whole or in part, of the elements describedherein pursuant to certain exemplary embodiments. Computing device 218is one example of a computing device and is not intended to suggest anylimitation as to scope of use or functionality of the computing deviceand/or its possible architectures. Neither should computing device 218be interpreted as having any dependency or requirement relating to anyone or combination of components illustrated in the example computingdevice 218.

Computing device 218 includes one or more processors or processing units214, one or more memory/storage components 215, one or more input/output(I/O) devices 216, and a bus 217 that allows the various components anddevices to communicate with one another. Bus 217 represents one or moreof any of several types of bus structures, including a memory bus ormemory controller, a peripheral bus, an accelerated graphics port, and aprocessor or local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures. Bus217 includes wired and/or wireless buses.

Memory/storage component 215 represents one or more computer storagemedia. Memory/storage component 215 includes volatile media (such asrandom access memory (RAM)) and/or nonvolatile media (such as read onlymemory (ROM), flash memory, optical disks, magnetic disks, and soforth). Memory/storage component 215 includes fixed media (e.g., RAM,ROM, a fixed hard drive, etc.) as well as removable media (e.g., a Flashmemory drive, a removable hard drive, an optical disk, and so forth).

One or more I/O devices 216 allow a customer, utility, or other user toenter commands and information to computing device 218, and also allowinformation to be presented to the customer, utility, or other userand/or other components or devices. Examples of input devices include,but are not limited to, a keyboard, a cursor control device (e.g., amouse), a microphone, a touchscreen, and a scanner. Examples of outputdevices include, but are not limited to, a display device (e.g., amonitor or projector), speakers, outputs to a lighting network (e.g.,DMX card), a printer, and a network card.

Various techniques are described herein in the general context ofsoftware or program modules. Generally, software includes routines,programs, objects, components, data structures, and so forth thatperform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Animplementation of these modules and techniques are stored on ortransmitted across some form of computer readable media. Computerreadable media is any available non-transitory medium or non-transitorymedia that is accessible by a computing device. By way of example, andnot limitation, computer readable media includes “computer storagemedia”.

“Computer storage media” and “computer readable medium” include volatileand non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in anymethod or technology for storage of information such as computerreadable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data.Computer storage media include, but are not limited to, computerrecordable media such as RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memorytechnology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other opticalstorage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage orother magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which is used tostore the desired information and which is accessible by a computer.

The computer device 218 is connected to a network (not shown) (e.g., alocal area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN) such as theInternet, cloud, or any other similar type of network) via a networkinterface connection (not shown) according to some exemplaryembodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that manydifferent types of computer systems exist (e.g., desktop computer, alaptop computer, a personal media device, a mobile device, such as acell phone or personal digital assistant, or any other computing systemcapable of executing computer readable instructions), and theaforementioned input and output means take other forms, now known orlater developed, in other exemplary embodiments. Generally speaking, thecomputer system 218 includes at least the minimal processing, input,and/or output means necessary to practice one or more embodiments.

Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or moreelements of the aforementioned computer device 218 is located at aremote location and connected to the other elements over a network incertain exemplary embodiments. Further, one or more embodiments isimplemented on a distributed system having one or more nodes, where eachportion of the implementation (e.g., control engine 106) is located on adifferent node within the distributed system. In one or moreembodiments, the node corresponds to a computer system. Alternatively,the node corresponds to a processor with associated physical memory insome exemplary embodiments. The node alternatively corresponds to aprocessor with shared memory and/or resources in some exemplaryembodiments.

FIG. 3 shows a light fixture 302 in accordance with certain exampleembodiments. Referring to FIGS. 1-3, the light fixture 302 of FIG. 3 isthe physical embodiment of the light fixture 102 of FIG. 1. The lightfixture 302 is located in an ambient environment 391, which can be ahazardous environment. The light fixture 302 of FIG. 3 includes ahousing 303, a number of light sources 342, and a sensor module 360coupled to the housing 303. The housing 303 can have one or moresections. In this case, the housing 303 consists of section 341 andsection 343. Section 341 is disposed atop section 343 and includes tophat 374, which can be hingedly coupled to the rest of section 341.Section 341 can form a cavity, inside of which one or more components(e.g., one or more power supplies 140, the controller 104) of the lightfixture 302 can be disposed.

Similarly, one or more components (e.g., one or more light sources 342,antenna assembly 339) of the light fixture 302 can be disposed on orwithin, at least in part, section 343 of the housing 303. When acomponent is disposed on a section (e.g., section 343) of the housing303, a protective device (e.g., a lens 351) can be used, at least inpart, to cover and protect such components. When the housing 303 hasmultiple sections, there can be one or more communication links (e.g.,communication link 105) disposed between them. Further, these multiplecomponents can be designed to couple to each other in such a way thatthe entire housing 303 complies with applicable standards (e.g.,hazardous location requirements).

One or more portions of the housing 303 can be made of a thermallyconductive material (e.g., metal). In some cases, such as with the lightfixture 302 of FIG. 3, a heat sink assembly 345 (also sometimes referredto more simply herein as a heat sink 345) can be disposed on and/orintegrated with a portion of the housing 303 (or section thereof). Inthis particular example, the heat sink 345 is integrated with a portionof section 343 of the housing 303. A heat sink assembly 345 often hasone or more features (in this case, heat sink fins 347) that increasethe surface area of the heat sink assembly 345, thereby increasing itsthermal transfer efficiency.

These features of the heat sink assembly 345 can be of any number and/orhave any of a number of configurations. In this case, the heat sink fins347 are vertically-oriented protrusions that extend outward from thesection 343 of the housing 303 and are spaced substantiallyequidistantly around the outer perimeter of the section 343 of thehousing 303. A small exception can exist when the sensor module 360 iscoupled to an exterior surface of the housing 303, as in this case.Specifically, a mounting feature 369 of the section 343 of the housing303 can couple to the sensor module 360. The mounting feature 369 canhave any of a number of configurations. For example, in this case,sensor module 360 includes a tubular extension 366 that extends radiallyfrom the section 343 of the housing 303. In addition, or in thealternative, the tubular extension 366 can be part of the mountingfeature 369. As another example, the mounting feature 369 can be anopening in a wall of the section 343 of the housing 303. In any case,the mounting feature 369 can include any of a number of couplingfeatures that couple to complementary coupling features disposed on thesensor module 360. In this case, there are no heat sink fins 347adjacent to the sensor module 360 to allow, as some examples, forclearance in the proper function of the sensor of the sensor module 360.

The sensor module 360 can have a housing 361 that contains one or moreof a number of components (e.g., sensor, a lens 362, a bezel 335,electrical conductors (a form of communication link 105) of the sensormodule 360. The light fixture 302, in conjunction with variouscomponents (e.g., the housing 361) of the sensor module 360, can beengineered and made of such materials as to meet any applicablestandards that apply to the ambient environment 391 in which the lightfixture 302 is located. For example, if the ambient environment 391 inwhich the light fixture 302 is located is a hazardous environment, thena safety barrier (e.g., safety barrier 136) can be disposed within thehousing 303 of the light fixture 302 for any electrical conductors thatrun between the sensor module 360 and the housing 303 of the lightfixture 302. Similarly, the components within the sensor module 360 thatare coupled to those electrical conductors can be designed to run onlower voltages to avoid creating a spark or arcing.

By having the sensor module 360 coupled to the exterior of the housing303 of the light fixture 302, the sensor module 360 can measure a widerarray of parameters that can affect the operation of the light fixture302. Further, example sensor modules 360 can be adjustable so thatparameters measured by a sensor of a sensor module 360 can be targetedto a particular volume of space relative to the light fixture 302.Example embodiments allow for the safe and effective coupling of one ormore sensor modules 360 to the housing 303 of the light fixture 302 sothat the sensor modules 360 can be disposed in the ambient environment,allowing for more effective monitoring, control, and prognostication ofthe light fixture 302 by the controller (e.g., controller 104).

The sensor module 360 can be coupled to the housing 303 using one ormore of a number of coupling features. For example, in this case, thesensor module 360 can snap-connect to the mounting feature 369 of thehousing 303. In certain example embodiments, when the sensor module 360couples to the housing 303, the sensor module 360 can be moved (e.g.,rotated, angled up, angled down) in one or more of a number ofdirections relative to the housing 303. In this way, regardless of howthe light fixture 302 is mounted (e.g., to a wall, to a pole, to abracket), the sensor module 360 can be adjusted so that the sensorwithin the sensor module 360 is oriented (e.g., aimed) properly tooperate effectively. For example, if the sensor of the sensor module 360operates most effectively when it is pointed straight down toward theground, the sensor module 360 can be oriented in such a way as to allowfor this, even if the housing 303 of the light fixture 302 is notmounted along a truly vertical axis. Examples of this are shown in FIGS.6-8 below.

Further, the antenna assembly 339 of the light fixture 302 of FIG. 3 ismounted inside a cavity formed by the lens 351 adjacent to the lightsources 342. For example, in this case, the distal part of the antennaassembly 339 protrudes through an aperture in the circuit board 348 onwhich the light sources 342 are disposed. Since the antenna assembly 339is disposed behind the lens 351, the lens 351 serves to act as both adiffuser for the light emitted by the light sources 342 and to protectthe antenna assembly 339. The antenna assembly 339 in this example canbe shaped and sized in such a way as to have minimal or no effect on thelight emitted by the light sources 342.

FIG. 3 also shows an identification component 378 (e.g., a sticker, anameplate) that is affixed to the outer surface of a light fixture 302.Here, the identification component 378 is sticker that is adhered topart of the outer surface of portion 341 of the housing 303 of the lightfixture 302. The identification component 378 can include informationabout the light fixture 302. Such information can include, but is notlimited to, a manufacturer name and address, a voltage rating, a currentrating, maximum lumen output, a model number, a serial number, and aNEMA rating.

FIG. 4 shows another light fixture 402 in accordance with certainexample embodiments. Referring to FIGS. 1-4, similar to the housing 303of FIG. 3, the housing 403 of the light fixture 402 of FIG. 4 has twosections: Section 441 and section 443. Further, like the light fixture302 of FIG. 3, the light fixture 402 of FIG. 4 has a heat sink assembly445 disposed over a portion of section 443 of the housing 403. In thiscase, the heat sink fins 447 are disposed as vertically-orientedprotrusions along the entire outer perimeter of the section 443 of thehousing 403. The light fixture 402 is located in an ambient environment491, which can be a hazardous environment.

There is also a sensor device 460 coupled to the housing 403. Toaccommodate this coupling, there is a mounting feature 469 disposed atthe distal end of two or more adjacent heat sink fins 447 that allow thesensor module 460 to couple to the housing 403. In this case, themounting feature 469 can include one or more coupling features (in thiscase, apertures that are hidden from view) that align with complementarycoupling features 464 (in this case, slots that traverse a flange 463 inthe sensor module 460). In addition to the flange 463, the sensor module460 includes an extension 466 disposed between the flange 463 and thehousing 461. One or more fastening devices 465 (a form of couplingfeature) are used to couple the sensor module 460 to the mountingfeature 469, where each fastening device 465 is disposed through acoupling feature 464 (in this case, a slot) in the flange 463 of thesensor module 460 and a coupling feature (in this case, an aperture) inthe mounting feature 469. By using slots for the coupling features 464in the flange 463 of the sensor module 460, the sensor module 460 can berotated about an axis formed by the extension 466 (i.e., along the slotsformed as the coupling features 464) to help properly align the sensorof the sensor module 460 relative to the housing 403 of the lightfixture 402.

One other feature of the light fixture 402 of FIG. 4 is a lens 451 thatis used to diffuse light emitted by the light sources 442 of the lightfixture 402, where the lens 451 and the light sources 442 aresubstantially similar to their counterparts of FIG. 3. There is also anidentification component 478, substantially similar to theidentification component 378 of FIG. 3, affixed to the section 441 ofthe housing 403.

FIGS. 5A and 5B show a portion of a light fixture 502 in accordance withcertain example embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 5A shows a top-sideperspective view of the portion of the light fixture 502. FIG. 5B showsa cross-sectional side view of the sensor module 560 and the mountingfeature 569. Referring to FIGS. 1-5B, the light fixture 502 of FIGS. 5Aand 5B includes section 543 of a housing, a heat sink assembly 545disposed on the outer surface of part of the section 543, and a sensormodule 560 coupled to the mounting feature 569 of the section 543. Thelight fixture 502 is located in an ambient environment 591, which can bea hazardous environment. Without section 541 of the housing, FIG. 5Ashows a cavity formed by the body 544 (made up of one or more walls) ofsection 543, where one or more components (e.g., electrical wiring,light sources) can be disposed. The heat sink fins 547 of FIGS. 5A and5B are configured similar to the heat sink fins 347 of FIG. 3, in thatthe heat sink fins 547 are interrupted at the location where themounting feature 569 is positioned to couple to the sensor module 560.

The sensor module 560 of FIGS. 5A and 5B is substantially similar to thesensor module 460 of FIG. 4, except as described below. For example, theflange 563 of the sensor module 560 has a number of coupling features564 in the form of slots, through which a number of fastening devices565 traverse to couple the sensor module 560 to the mounting feature569. The extension 566 of the sensor module 560 of FIGS. 5A and 5Bdiffers from the extension 466 of FIG. 4, at least, in that theextension 566 has a number of joints 583 that allow for rotationalmovement of the housing 561 relative to the flange 563 in at least onedirection.

For example, a joint 583 can allow the housing 561 to rotate about anaxis defined by the extension 566 adjacent to the joint 583. As anotherexample, a joint 583 can allow the housing 561 to move up-and-down,side-to-side, and/or in any other direction relative to the flange 563.In such a case, the extension 566 can include one or more features(e.g., detents, locking pins, fastening sleeves) that allow the positionof the housing 561 relative to the flange 563 to remain fixed once thehousing 561 has been put into a desired position by a user (e.g., user150) relative to the flange 563 (and so also the housing of the lightfixture 502).

FIG. 5B also shows a channel 568 that runs through the extension 566 sothat communication links (e.g., electrical conductors, electricalconnectors) can be disposed therein. FIG. 5B also shows a sealing member597 (e.g., a gasket, an o-ring, silicone) disposed between an outersurface of the flange 563 and the mounting feature 569. In such a case,the sealing member 597 can help maintain requirements for the lightfixture, when coupled to the sensor module 560, to comply withapplicable standards for a hazardous environment.

FIGS. 6-8 show other light fixtures in accordance with certain exampleembodiments. Referring to FIGS. 1-8, the light fixture 602 of FIG. 6includes a housing 603 with section 641 and section 643. The lightfixture 602 is located in an ambient environment 691, which can be ahazardous environment. Further, heat sink assembly 645 is disposed onthe outer surface of section 643 and includes a number ofvertically-oriented heat sink fins 647. There is a mounting feature 669disposed at the distal end of two or more adjacent heat sink fins 647that allow the sensor module 660 to couple to the housing 603. As such,the heat sink fins 647 are disposed along the entire outer perimeter ofsection 643. The sensor module 660 and its various components (e.g.,sensor housing 661, extension 666, flange 663, coupling features 664)are substantially the same as the sensor module 460 of FIG. 4 and itscorresponding components. Fastening devices 665 are used to couple thesensor module 660 to the mounting feature 669 of the housing 603 of thelight fixture 602. Here, the sensor module 660 is directed along an axis653 that is at an angle (approximately 45° deviation) relative to theaxis 654 along which the housing 603 of the light fixture 602 isdirected, thereby showing how the position of the example sensor module660 is adjustable relative to the housing 603 of the light fixture 602.

The light fixture 702 of FIG. 7 includes a housing 703 with section 741and section 743. The light fixture 702 is located in an ambientenvironment 791, which can be a hazardous environment. Further, heatsink assembly 745 is disposed on the outer surface of section 743 andincludes a number of vertically-oriented heat sink fins 747. There is amounting feature 769 disposed at the distal end of two or more adjacentheat sink fins 747 that allow the sensor module 760 to couple to themounting feature 769 of the housing 703. As such, the heat sink fins 747are disposed along the entire outer perimeter of section 743. The sensormodule 760 and its various components (e.g., sensor housing 761,extension 766, flange 763, coupling features 764) are substantially thesame as the sensor module 460 of FIG. 4 and its correspondingcomponents. Fastening devices 765 are used to couple the sensor module760 to the mounting feature 769 of the housing 703 of the light fixture702. Here, the sensor module 760 is directed along an axis 753 that isalmost parallel (approximately 5° deviation) with the axis 754 alongwhich the housing 703 of the light fixture 702 is directed, againshowing how the position of the example sensor module 760 is adjustablerelative to the housing 703 of the light fixture 702.

The light fixture 802 of FIG. 8 includes a housing 803 with section 841and section 843. The light fixture 802 is located in an ambientenvironment 891, which can be a hazardous environment. Further, heatsink assembly 845 is disposed on the outer surface of section 843 andincludes a number of vertically-oriented heat sink fins 847. There is amounting feature 869 disposed at the distal end of two or more adjacentheat sink fins 847 that allow the sensor module 860 to couple to themounting feature 869 of the housing 803. As such, the heat sink fins 847are disposed along the entire outer perimeter of section 843. The sensormodule 860 and its various components are substantially the same as thesensor module 460 of FIG. 4 and its corresponding components. Fasteningdevices 865 are used to couple the sensor module 860 to the mountingfeature 869 of the housing 803 of the light fixture 802. Here, thesensor module 860 is directed along an axis 853 that is almost parallel(approximately 15° deviation) with the axis 854 along which the housing803 of the light fixture 802 is directed, again showing how the positionof the example sensor module 860 is adjustable relative to the housing803 of the light fixture 802.

FIGS. 9A and 9B show a portion of yet another light fixture 902 inaccordance with certain example embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 9A showsa top-side perspective view of the portion of the light fixture 902.FIG. 9B shows a cross-sectional side view of the portion of the lightfixture 902. Referring to FIGS. 1-9B, the light fixture 902 of FIGS. 9Aand 9B is substantially similar to the light fixtures of FIGS. 4 and6-8, except as described below. For example, the light fixture 902 ofFIGS. 9A and 9B includes a housing 903 with section 943. The lightfixture 902 is located in an ambient environment 991, which can be ahazardous environment. Further, heat sink assembly 945 is disposed onthe outer surface of section 943 and includes a number ofvertically-oriented heat sink fins 947. There is a mounting feature 969disposed at the distal end of two or more adjacent heat sink fins 947that allow the sensor module 960 to couple to the mounting feature 969of the housing 903. As such, the heat sink fins 947 are disposed alongmost of the entire outer perimeter of section 943.

The sensor module 960 of the light fixture 902 can be coupled to anddecoupled from the mounting feature 969 disposed on the distal end ofsome of the heat sink fins 947 of the heat sink 945 disposed on theouter surface of the body 944 of the section 943 of the housing by auser (e.g., user 150) without the use of tools. Similarly, the positionof the sensor module 960 relative to the section 943 of the housing 903can be adjusted and fixed in place by a user without the use of tools.For example, when a sealing member 997-1 is disposed around theextension 966 within the coupling feature 957 of the mounting feature969, the sealing member 997-1 can hold the sensor module 960 in aparticular position relative to the housing 903 using friction, and sorotational adjustments can be made without tools. In addition, or in thealternative, there can be a securing member 929 (in this case, a setscrew) disposed in an aperture 927 in the mounting feature 969 that canbe secured with a tool (e.g., a screwdriver) to fix and/or adjust theposition (e.g., rotational) of the sensor module 960 relative to thesection 943 of the housing 903. Further, the mounting feature 969 canhave multiple coupling features to secure the sensor module 960.

In this case, the coupling feature 967 of the mounting feature 969disposed on the distal end of some of the heat sink fins 947 is anaperture that runs vertically through the mounting feature 969 andintersects a coupling feature 957 (in this case, a horizontal aperture)in the mounting feature 969. The coupling feature 957 in the mountingfeature 969 receives the distal portion of the extension 966 of thesensor module 960, and the coupling feature 973 disposed in theextension 966 receives a fastening device 965 (a type of couplingfeature). In this case, the fastening device 965 is a spring-activatedpin with a pull ring at the top end of the pin. In some cases, there canbe a number of coupling features 973 disposed around an outer perimeterand/or along a length of the extension 966, providing a number ofpositions that fastening device 965 can use to lock in a position of thesensor module 960 relative to the housing 903. As an alternative, thefastening device 965 can be a molded living hinge-style locking feature.

The extension 966 of the sensor module 960 in this case can have acoupling feature 956 disposed within the channel 968 and/or at thedistal end of the extension 966. In this case, the coupling feature 956of the sensor module 960 can be an electrical connector end thatcomplements the coupling feature 972 (in this case, also an electricalconnector end) of the mounting feature 969. When the extension 966 ofthe sensor module 960 is inserted into the coupling feature 957, andwhen coupling feature 956 of the sensor module 960 couples to couplingfeature 972 of the mounting feature 969, fastening device 965 coupleswith coupling feature 973 disposed on the outer surface of the extension966. In some cases, the channel 968 can be filled with one or morematerials (e.g., potting compound) to provide an encapsulated mechanicalsafety barrier and to help the light fixture 902 comply with applicablestandards for the ambient environment (e.g., a hazardous environment) inwhich the light fixture 902 is located.

In certain example embodiments, coupling feature 972 can include anconductors) to pass therethrough while preventing dust, gases, moisture,and other elements from passing therethrough. For example, thecommunication links 905 as well as at least a portion of the couplingfeature 972 to which the communication links 905 are connected can bepotted. Further, an electrical safety barrier (e.g., safety barrier 136,as described above) can be disposed in the housing 903 and allow onlylow levels of power to transfer to the sensor module 960, therebypreventing the sensor device 960 from becoming a source of ignition whenthe ambient environment 991 in which the light fixture 902 is disposedis hazardous.

In addition, or in the alternative, one or more sealing members 997 canbe used to provide a barrier from the ambient environment 991. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 9B, the extension 966 of the sensor module 960can have a channel disposed on its outer surface and into which asealing member 997-1 can be disposed. In this way, the sealing member997-1 can abut against an inner surface of the coupling feature 957 ofthe mounting feature 969 when the sensor module 960 is coupled to thehousing 903. The sealing member 997-1 can also provide a friction fit toallow for rotational adjustment of the sensor module 960 relative to thehousing 903 and maintain a relative position between the sensor module960 and the housing 903.

In this case, coupling feature 973 is a slot, a detent, or hole thattraverses some, but not all, of the thickness of the extension 966 andextends around some or all of the outer perimeter of the extension 966.In this way, when the extension 966 is inserted to a certain pointwithin the coupling feature 957 of the mounting feature 969, thespring-activated pin of the coupling feature 965 enters into thecoupling feature 973 and prevents the extension 966 from moving, atleast inward or outward, and possibly rotationally, relative to thecoupling feature 957 of the mounting feature 969. When the ring of thecoupling feature 965 is pulled, the pin of the coupling feature 965disengages from the coupling feature 973 of the extension 966, allowingthe sensor module 960 to move within the coupling feature 957.

Coupling feature 972 can be filled with one or more materials (e.g.,potting compound) to provide an encapsulated mechanical safety barrierand to help the light fixture 902 comply with applicable standards forthe ambient environment (e.g., a hazardous environment) in which thelight fixture 902 is located. Further, in some cases, the mountingfeature 969 can include an internal feature (e.g., a separate channel)to separate the intrinsically safe area (the area of the receivingfeature 969 adjacent to the encapsulated mechanical safety barrierprovided in the coupling feature 972) and other types of electricalconductors within the housing 903 of the light fixture 902.

Further, as discussed above, coupling feature 972 of the mountingfeature 969 and coupling feature 956 of the sensor module 960 in thiscase are electrical connector ends that complement each other. When thesensor module 960 is decoupled from the mounting feature 969 of thelight fixture 902, coupling feature 972 and/or coupling feature 956 canbe exposed to the ambient environment 991. In such a case, one or moremechanisms can be added to ensure the integrity of these couplingfeatures and/or compliance with an applicable standard. Further, becauseof the intrinsic safety, provided by the encapsulated mechanical safetybarrier at and/or around the coupling feature 972, leading to thereceiving feature 969 and everything downstream (e.g., the sensor module960), this design facilitates maintenance (e.g., adjustment,replacement) of the sensor module 960 during full operation withoutde-energization of the light fixture 902 or components (e.g.,controller, power supply) thereof. In other words, a sensor module 960can be removed while the rest of the light fixture 902 is energized andoperational, without adversely affecting the operation of the rest ofthe light fixture 902. Similarly, a sensor module 960 can be coupled tothe housing 903 while the light fixture 902 is energized andoperational, without adversely affecting the operation of the rest ofthe light fixture 902.

For example, a movable cover can be disposed over the coupling feature972 of the mounting feature 969 so that the coupling feature 972 iscovered by the cover when the sensor module 960 is decoupled from therest of the light fixture 902. As the sensor module 960 is about to becoupled to the rest of the light fixture 902, the cover canautomatically be moved out of the way to allow coupling feature 972 andcoupling feature 956 to become engaged. As the sensor module 960 isbeing decoupled from the rest of the light fixture 902, the cover canautomatically recover the coupling feature 972.

As discussed above, the example sensor module 960 can include one ormore of a number of components. For example, the sensor module 960 ofFIG. 9B includes a housing 961 that forms a cavity 992. Within thecavity 992 of FIG. 9B is disposed a sensor 938 and a mount 937 on whichthe sensor 938 is disposed. Also disposed in the cavity 992 of thesensor module 960 are one or more communication links 905 (in this case,electrical conductors) that extend from the coupling feature 956disposed within the channel 968 of the extension 966. In addition, abezel 935 is coupled to the bottom end of the housing 961, and a lens962 is disposed within the center of the bezel 935. The combination ofthe bezel 935 and the lens 962 encloses the cavity 992 of the sensormodule 960.

FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional side view of a portion of still anotherlight fixture 1002 in accordance with certain example embodiments.Referring to FIGS. 1-10, the light fixture 1002 of FIG. 10 issubstantially similar to the light fixtures described above, except asdescribed below. For example, the light fixture 1002 of FIG. 10 includesa housing 1003 with section 1043. The light fixture 1002 is located inan ambient environment 1091, which can be a hazardous environment.Further, heat sink assembly 1045 is disposed on the outer surface ofsection 1043 and includes a number of vertically-oriented heat sink fins1047. There is a mounting feature 1069 disposed on the wall 1044 of thesection 1043 of the housing 1003 that allow the sensor module 1060 tocouple to the mounting feature 1069 of the housing 1003.

The sensor module 1060 of FIG. 10 is not directly coupled to themounting feature 1069. Instead, a bridge device 1075 is disposed betweenand coupled directly to the extension 1066 of the sensor module 1060 andthe mounting feature 1069. The bridge device 1075 can have a body 1076through which a channel 1077 is disposed along the length of the body1076. The channel 1077 can be used to house one or more components(e.g., communication links such as electrical conductors, pottingcompound) of the light fixture 1002.

Further, each end of the bridge device 1075 can have any of a number ofany type of coupling features. Such coupling features can be used tohelp ensure that the light fixture 1002 meets any applicable standards.In this example, the distal end of the bridge device 1075 couples to themounting feature 1069 in a manner similar to how the extension 966 inFIGS. 9A and 9B couple to the mounting feature 969. The proximal end ofthe bridge device 1175 is coupled to the sensor module 1060 by abuttingagainst the flange 1063 and the two ends being held together by afastening device 1065 (in this case, a threaded collar). A sealingmember 1097 can be disposed at the junction of where the flange 1063abuts against the proximal end of the body 1076 of the bridge device1075.

As discussed above, the example sensor module 1060 can include one ormore of a number of components. For example, the sensor module 1060 ofFIG. 10 includes a housing 1061 that forms a cavity 1092. Within thecavity 1092 of FIG. 10 is disposed a sensor 1038 and a mount 1037 onwhich the sensor 1038 is disposed, and a circuit board 1019 disposedadjacent to the sensor 1038. In addition, a bezel 1035 is coupled to thebottom end of the housing 1061, and a lens 1062 is disposed within thecenter of the bezel 1035. The combination of the bezel 1035 and the lens1062 encloses the cavity 1092 of the sensor module 1060.

FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional side view of a portion of yet anotherlight fixture 1102 in accordance with certain example embodiments.Referring to FIGS. 1-11, the light fixture 1102 of FIG. 11 issubstantially similar to the light fixtures described above, except asdescribed below. For example, the light fixture 1102 of FIG. 11 includesa housing 1103 with section 1143. The light fixture 1102 is located inan ambient environment 1191, which can be a hazardous environment.Further, heat sink assembly 1145 is disposed on the outer surface ofsection 1143 and includes a number of vertically-oriented heat sink fins1147. There is a mounting feature 1169 disposed at the distal end of twoor more adjacent heat sink fins 1147 that allow the sensor module 1160to couple to the mounting feature 1169 of the housing 1103. As such, theheat sink fins 1147 are disposed along the entire outer perimeter ofsection 1143.

As with the light fixture 1002 of FIG. 10, a bridge device 1175 isdisposed between and coupled directly to the extension 1166 of thesensor module 1160 and the mounting feature 1169. In this case, however,the proximal end of the bridge device 1175 extends beyond the extension1166 and within the cavity 1192 formed by the housing 1161 of the sensormodule 1160. In such a case, one or more coupling features 1186 (in thiscase, an aperture) can be used to couple the proximal end of the bridgedevice 1175 to the sensor module 1160. In this example, a fasteningdevice 1181 traverses the coupling feature 1186 of the sensor module1160 and is disposed within a coupling feature 1182 (in this case, athreaded aperture) in the proximal end of the bridge device 1175 tocouple the bridge device 1175 and the sensor module 1160 to each other.

As discussed above, the example sensor module 1160 can include one ormore of a number of components. For example, the sensor module 1160 ofFIG. 11 includes a housing 1161 that forms a cavity 1192. In addition topart of the bridge device 1175, within the cavity 1192 of FIG. 11 isdisposed a sensor 1138 and a mount 1137 on which the sensor 1138 isdisposed, and a circuit board 1119 disposed adjacent to the sensor 1138.In addition, a bezel 1135 is coupled to the bottom end of the housing1161, and a lens 1162 is disposed within the center of the bezel 1135.The combination of the bezel 1135 and the lens 1162 encloses the cavity1192 of the sensor module 1160.

FIG. 12 shows a cross-sectional side view of a portion of still anotherlight fixture 1202 in accordance with certain example embodiments.Referring to FIGS. 1-12, the light fixture 1202 of FIG. 12 issubstantially similar to the light fixtures described above, except asdescribed below. For example, the light fixture 1202 of FIG. 12 includesa housing 1203 with section 1243. The light fixture 1202 is located inan ambient environment 1291, which can be a hazardous environment.Further, heat sink assembly 1245 is disposed on the outer surface ofsection 1243 and includes a number of vertically-oriented heat sink fins1247. There is a mounting feature 1269 disposed at the distal end of twoor more adjacent heat sink fins 1247 that allow the sensor module 1260to couple to the mounting feature 1269 of the housing 1203. As such, theheat sink fins 1247 are disposed along the entire outer perimeter ofsection 1243.

The sensor module 1260 mechanically couples to the mounting feature 1269in a manner substantially similar to what is described above withrespect to FIGS. 3-5B, and the sensor module 1260 is electricallycoupled to the rest of the light fixture 1202 in a manner substantiallysimilar to what is described above with respect to FIGS. 9A and 9B. Inthis case, the mounting feature 1269 can include one or more couplingfeatures (in this case, apertures that are hidden from view) that alignwith complementary coupling features 1264 (in this case, slots thattraverse a flange 1263 in the sensor module 1260). In addition to theflange 1263, the sensor module 1260 includes an extension 1266 disposedbetween the flange 1263 and the housing 461.

One or more fastening devices 1265 (a form of coupling feature) are usedto couple the sensor module 1260 to the mounting feature 1269, whereeach fastening device 1265 is disposed through a coupling feature 1264(in this case, a slot) in the flange 1263 of the sensor module 1260 anda coupling feature (in this case, an aperture) in the mounting feature1269. By using slots for the coupling features 1264 in the flange 1263of the sensor module 1260, the sensor module 1260 can be rotated aboutan axis formed by the extension 1266 (i.e., along the slots formed asthe coupling features 1264) to help properly align the sensor of thesensor module 1260 relative to the housing 1203 of the light fixture1202.

In certain example embodiments, coupling feature 1272, disposed withinthe channel 1257 of the mounting feature 1269 and coupled to couplingfeature 1256, can include an encapsulated mechanical safety barrier, asdescribed above, which isolates the sensor module 1260 so that thesensor module 1260 only needs to be intrinsically safe to comply withapplicable standards. A sealing member 1297 can be disposed between theflange 1263 and the mounting feature 1269 to prevent the ambientenvironment 1291 from intruding into the sensor module 1260.

As discussed above, the example sensor module 1260 can include one ormore of a number of components. For example, the sensor module 1260 ofFIG. 12 includes a housing 1261 that forms a cavity 1292. Within thecavity 1292 of FIG. 12 is disposed a sensor 1238, a mount 1237 on whichthe sensor 1238 is disposed, and a circuit board 1219 disposed proximateto the sensor 1238. Also disposed in the cavity 1292 of the sensormodule 1260 are one or more communication links 1205 (in this case,electrical conductors) that extend from the coupling feature 1256disposed within the channel 1268 of the extension 1266. In addition, abezel 1235 is coupled to the bottom end of the housing 1261, and a lens1262 is disposed within the center of the bezel 1235. The combination ofthe bezel 1235 and the lens 1262 encloses the cavity 1292 of the sensormodule 1260.

FIGS. 13A and 13B show yet another light fixture 1302 in accordance withcertain example embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 13A shows a side view ofthe light fixture 1302. FIG. 13B shows a bottom-side perspective view ofthe light fixture 1302. In addition, FIGS. 14A-14C show the sensormodule 1360 of FIGS. 13A and 13B in accordance with certain exampleembodiments. Specifically, FIG. 14A shows a rear-side view of the sensormodule 1360. FIG. 14B shows a bottom view of the sensor module 1360.FIG. 14C shows a top view of the sensor module 1360.

Further, FIGS. 15A and 15B show part of the light fixture 1302 of FIGS.13A and 13B in accordance with certain example embodiments.Specifically, FIG. 15A shows a front-side view of the light fixture 1302without the sensor module 1360. FIG. 15B shows a detailed top view ofthe mounting feature 1369. In addition, FIGS. 16A-16H show detailedviews of the light fixture 1302 of FIGS. 13A and 13B in accordance withcertain example embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 16A shows a front-sideperspective view of the sensor module 1360 decoupled from the mountingfeature 1369. FIGS. 16B-16F show a front-side perspective view of thesensor module 1360 coupled to the mounting feature 1369 and in variouspositions relative to the mounting feature 1369. FIGS. 16G and 16H showa cross-sectional side view of the sensor module 1360 coupled to themounting feature 1369.

Referring to FIGS. 1-16H, the light fixture 1302 of FIG. 13 issubstantially similar to the light fixtures described above, except asdescribed below. For example, the light fixture 1302 of FIG. 13 includesa housing 1303 with section 1341 and section 1343. The light fixture1302 is located in an ambient environment 1391, which can be a hazardousenvironment. Further, heat sink assembly 1345 is disposed on the outersurface of section 1343 and includes a number of vertically-orientedheat sink fins 1347. There is a mounting feature 1369 disposed at thedistal end of two or more adjacent heat sink fins 1347 that allow thesensor module 1360 to couple to the mounting feature 1369 of the housing1303. As such, the heat sink fins 1347 are disposed along the entireouter perimeter of section 1343.

As shown in FIGS. 14A-15B, the sensor module 1360 and the mountingfeature 1369 are configured differently than what has been shown anddescribed above. In this case, the extension 1466 of the sensor module1360 two opposing spring tabs (spring tab 1481 and spring tab 1482)disposed on opposing sides of the extension 1466 and oriented oppositeeach other. In addition, the extension 1466 includes a retention rib1484 disposed on the bottom of the extension 1466. Further, theextension 1466 can have one or more channels 1486 disposed along itsouter perimeter between the retention rib 1484 and the distal end of theextension 1466. In this case, the extension 1466 has two channels 1486(channel 1486-1 and channel 1486-2) located adjacent and in parallelwith each other, where channel 1486-1 has disposed therein a sealingmember 1497-1 and channel 1486-2 has disposed therein a sealing member1497-2.

The mounting feature 1369 of the housing 1303 is similar to what isdescribed with respect to other mounting features above in that couplingfeature 1557 (in this case, an aperture) can have another couplingfeature 1572 (in this case, an electrical connector) disposed therein,where the coupling feature 1572 couples to a complementary couplingfeature (not shown) of the sensor module 1360. The mounting feature 1369also includes a platform 1585 that extends away from the distal end ofthe coupling feature 1557. The platform 1585 has disposed therein afirst channel 1589 and a second channel 1598, where the first channel1589 is deeper, longer, and narrower compared to the second channel1598. Further, channel 1589 is disposed adjacent to the distal end ofthe coupling feature 1557, and channel 1598 is disposed adjacent tochannel 1589 away from the distal end of the coupling feature 1557.Also, channel 1598 is centered on platform 1585, so that platform 1585extends upward relative to channel 1598 on both sides of channel 1598.

As shown in FIGS. 14A-16F, the features (e.g., spring tab 1481, springtab 1482, retention rib 1484, sealing member 1497-1, sealing member1497-2) on the extension 1466 of the sensor module 1360, when combinedwith the features (e.g., coupling feature 1557, platform 1585, channel1589, channel 1598) of the mounting feature 1369, allow for retentionand angular adjustment of the sensor module 1360 relative to the housing1303. Specifically, when the extension 1466 of the sensor module 1360 isproperly inserted into the coupling feature 1557 of the mounting feature1369, the retention rib 1484 of the extension 1466 of the sensor module1360 is disposed within and engages the channel 1598 of the mountingfeature 1369.

In addition, spring tab 1481 and spring tab 1482 of the extension 1466of the sensor module 1360 interacts with platform 1585 and channel 1589of the mounting feature 1369 as the sensor module 1360 is rotated withincoupling feature 1557. When the sensor module 1360 is initially insertedinto the mounting feature 1369, as shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B, thesensor module 1360 is substantially upside down (i.e., the lens 1462 isfacing up) so that spring tab 1481, spring tab 1482, and retention rib1484 avoid contact with the channel 1598, the channel 1589, and theplatform 1585.

As the sensor module 1360 is rotated in either direction (in this case,clockwise) into its desired position, as shown in FIGS. 16C and 16D, oneof the spring tabs (in this case, spring tab 1482) approaches the rightside of the platform 1585. At this point, the other spring tab (in thiscase, spring tab 1481) slides past the same side (in this case, theright side) of the platform and into channel 1598. At this point, theinsertion and rotation of the sensor module 1360 relative to themounting feature 1369 is done without tools and without manipulatingspring tab 1481 or spring tab 1482. Also, as the sensor module 1360rotates, the retention rib 1484 begins to engage channel 1589, whichprevents the sensor module 1360 from being pulled out and away from themounting frame 1369.

The sensor module 1360 continues to rotate in the same direction, asshown in FIG. 16E. Once spring tab 1481 clears channel 1598 and then theother side (in this case, the left side) of the platform 1585, theorientation of spring tab 1481 prevents rotation in the reversedirection (in this case, counter-clockwise) because the tab of thespring clip 1481 sticks out and abuts against the left side of theplatform 1585. Similarly, continued rotation of the sensor module 1360in the same direction (in this case, clockwise), also is prevented at apoint where the tab of the spring clip 1482 sticks out and abuts againstthe right side of the platform 1585. In this way, the rotational rangeof motion of the sensor module 1360 is limited by spring clip 1481 andspring clip 1482.

The position of the spring clips on the extension 1466 can be configuredto offer a limited range of motion of the sensor module 1360 relative tothe housing 1303, or a greater range of motion. Similarly, thearrangement of the spring clips can have the center of the range ofmotion of the sensor module 1360 be vertical. Alternatively, thearrangement of the spring clips can have the center of the range ofmotion of the sensor module 1360 be offset from vertical. Further, atthis stage, the retention rib 1484 remains engaged with channel 1589,continuing to prevent the sensor module 1360 from being pulled out andaway from the mounting frame 1369.

When a user wants to remove the sensor module 1360 from the housing1303, this can be accomplished without tools. For example, as shown inFIG. 16F, the sensor module 1360 can be rotated in either direction (inthis case, clockwise) to the point where one of the spring tabs (in thiscase, spring tab 1481) is about to contact one side (in this case, theright side) of the platform 1585. When the user presses the tab ofspring tab 1481 inward, and then continues to rotate the sensor module1360 in the same direction as the tab of the spring tab continues to bepressed inward, the platform 1585 no longer interferes (makes contact)with spring tab 1481. This allows the sensor module 1360 to continue torotate relative to the housing 1303 until the retention rib 1484 clearschannel 1589. At that point, the sensor module 1360 can be pulled awayfrom the housing, decoupling the sensor module 1360 from the housing1303.

Because of the design of example sensor modules herein, such as shown inFIGS. 13A-16H, the sensor module 1360 can be coupled to and/or decoupledfrom the housing 1303 while the light fixture 1302 is operating withoutthe risk of creating a source of ignition, adversely affecting theoperation of the light fixture 1302, or otherwise causing a disruption.Further, whether the sensor module 1360 is coupled to the housing 1303or not, when the light fixture 1302 is located in a hazardousenvironment, the light fixture 1302 complies with applicable standardsfor the hazardous location.

Further, sealing member 1497-1 and sealing member 1497-2 of theextension 1466 of the sensor module 1360 interact with the inner surfaceof coupling feature 1557 of the mounting feature 1369 to provide afriction fit to maintain the angular position of the sensor module 1360relative to the housing 1303. In this way, the sensor module 1360 of thelight fixture 1302 can be coupled to and decoupled from the mountingfeature 1369 by a user (e.g., user 150) without the use of tools.Similarly, the position of the sensor module 1360 relative to thehousing 1303 can be adjusted and fixed in place by a user without theuse of tools.

In addition, as shown in FIGS. 14A-14C, 16G, and 16H, the variouscomponents of the sensor module 1360 are designed to minimize thetolerance stack up between such components to achieve the highestsensitivity out of the sensor 1638. The sensor module 1360 in this caseincludes a housing 1461 that forms a cavity 1692. Within the cavity 1692is disposed a sensor 1638, a mount 1637 on which the sensor 1638 isdisposed, and a circuit board 1619 disposed proximate to the sensor1638. Also disposed in the cavity 1692 of the sensor module 1360 is partof the coupling feature 1557 (described above), which is also disposedwithin the channel 1668 of the extension 1466. In addition, a bezel 1435is coupled to the bottom end of the housing 1461, and a lens 1462 isdisposed within the center of the bezel 1435. The combination of thebezel 1435 and the lens 1462 encloses the cavity 1692 of the sensormodule 1360.

In this case, the circuit board 1619 is coupled to and centered on themount 1637 by the sensor 1638. Further, the mount 1637 and the lens 1462are centered on the bezel 1435 by one or more locating rings 1488, whichprotrude upward from the bezel 1435 into a corresponding channel (e.g.,channel 1487 in the housing 1461, channel 1694 in the mount 1637). Alocating ring 1488 in the bezel 1435 and a corresponding channel in anadjacent component of the sensor module 1360 can be disposed along allor one or more discrete portions of the perimeter of such a component.As another example, as shown in FIG. 16H, a discrete protrusion 1693from the top surface of the bezel 1435 can extend through an aperture inthe mount 1637. In these ways, multiple components of the sensor module1360 can be “keyed” so that adjacent components can only be assembled alimited number (e.g., one) of ways.

One or more sealing members 1697 can be used to provide an environmentalseal between two or more components of the sensor module 1360. Forexample, as shown in FIGS. 16G and 16H, sealing member 1697 can bedisposed within a channel in the top surface of the bezel 1435 toprovide an environmental seal between the bezel 1435 and the mount 1637.

FIG. 17 shows a system 1700 that includes a light fixture 1702 and asensor module 1760 in accordance with certain example embodiments.Specifically, the sensor module 1760 is directly coupled to an enclosure1899 aside from the housing 1703 of the light fixture 1702, but wherethe sensor module 1760 is communicably coupled to the light fixture1702. Referring to FIGS. 1-17, the enclosure 1899 in this case is anexplosion-proof junction box having a housing 1803. The sensor module1760 is coupled to the housing 1803 of the enclosure 1899 in asubstantially similar way that the sensor modules described above can becoupled to the housing of a light fixture. Since the enclosure 1899 isan explosion-proof enclosure, the sensor module 1760 is coupled to thehousing 1803 of the enclosure 1899 in such a way that the combinationcomplies with applicable standards (e.g., NEMA 7) for hazardousenvironments.

The light fixture 1702 in this case can be substantially similar to thelight fixtures described above, except that in this case the housing1703 of the light fixture 1702 lacks a mounting feature (e.g., mountingfeature 1369 of FIGS. 13A-16H above) to which the sensor module 1760 canbe coupled. Instead, there is a communication link 1705 between theenclosure 1899 and the light fixture 1702, allowing communicationbetween the sensor module 1760 and the light fixture 1702. For example,the enclosure 1899 can include its own controller (including a controlengine, a communication module, and a transceiver) and other components(e.g., an antenna assembly) to allow for wired and/or wirelesscommunication (using the communication links 1705) with the controllerand its corresponding components of the light fixture 1702.

Example sensor modules described herein can have modular characteristicsand enhance a network of light fixtures in a lighting system. Forexample, a sensor module that is coupled to one light fixture in alighting system can measure one or more parameters. These measurementscan be used by the light fixture to which the sensor module is coupledfor the operation of that light fixture. In some cases, thesemeasurements can also be transmitted to one or more other lightfixtures, a user, a network manager, and/or other components of thelighting system. For example, one or more other light fixtures of thesystem can use these measurements for operation of those other lightfixtures.

Further, a light fixture that is configured to receive an example sensormodule can be flexible as to the one or more parameters measured by asensor module. For example, a light fixture, when coupled to an examplesensor module that measures ambient light, can automatically recognizethe measurements for ambient light provided by the sensor module andoperate accordingly using those measurements. If a user then swaps thesensor module that measures ambient light with a different sensor modulethat measures movement (occupancy), the light fixture can automaticallyrecognize the measurements for movement provided by the sensor moduleand operate accordingly using those measurements.

Example embodiments can allow for more reliable and efficient lightfixtures, particularly when those light fixtures are located inhazardous environments. Example embodiments, allow for sensor modules tobe integrated with (e.g., disposed within, coupled to an exterior of) alight fixture while allowing the light fixture to comply with applicablestandards. These integral sensor modules allow for a light fixture towork with a controller and/or other components of the light fixture.Example embodiments can further provide a user with options to improvethe operational efficiency and prolong the useful life of a lightfixture or components thereof. Example embodiments can also allow forinterchangeable and modular configurations in a lighting system.

Although embodiments described herein are made with reference to exampleembodiments, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art thatvarious modifications are well within the scope and spirit of thisdisclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the exampleembodiments described herein are not limited to any specificallydiscussed application and that the embodiments described herein areillustrative and not restrictive. From the description of the exampleembodiments, equivalents of the elements shown therein will suggestthemselves to those skilled in the art, and ways of constructing otherembodiments using the present disclosure will suggest themselves topractitioners of the art. Therefore, the scope of the exampleembodiments is not limited herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A lighting system, comprising: a light fixture located in a hazardous environment, wherein the light fixture comprises a controller; and a sensor module communicably coupled to the controller of the light fixture, wherein the sensor module comprises a sensor module housing and a sensor disposed within the sensor module housing, wherein the sensor module housing comprises a first coupling feature that couples to a hazardous location enclosure, wherein the hazardous location enclosure and the sensor module, when coupled to each other, comply with applicable standards for the hazardous environment.
 2. The lighting system of claim 1, wherein the sensor module is intrinsically safe.
 3. The lighting system of claim 1, wherein the hazardous location enclosure is a housing of the light fixture, wherein the housing comprises a mounting feature, wherein the first coupling feature of the sensor module couples to the mounting feature.
 4. The lighting system of claim 3, further comprising: a safety barrier that limits an amount of power delivered from the housing to the sensor device.
 5. The lighting system of claim 4, wherein the safety barrier is a capacitive barrier.
 6. The lighting system of claim 3, wherein the light fixture continues to operate as the sensor module is coupled to and decoupled from the housing of the light fixture.
 7. The lighting system of claim 1, wherein the sensor module further comprises an extension that forms a channel, wherein the channel has disposed therein an electrical connection between the fixture housing and the sensor module, wherein the channel is encapsulated.
 8. The lighting system of claim 1, wherein the mounting feature of the fixture housing comprises a channel, wherein the channel has disposed therein an electrical connection between the fixture housing and the sensor module, wherein the channel is encapsulated.
 9. The lighting system of claim 1, wherein the sensor module housing is configured to withstand impact requirements for the hazardous location enclosure.
 10. A lighting system, comprising: a first fixture housing of a first light fixture, wherein the first fixture housing comprises a first mounting feature; and a sensor module removably coupled to the first fixture housing, wherein the sensor module comprises a sensor module housing and a sensor disposed within the sensor module housing, wherein the sensor module housing comprises a first coupling feature that couples to the first mounting feature of the first fixture housing, wherein the sensor device is adjustable relative to the first fixture housing.
 11. The lighting system of claim 10, further comprising: a mechanical bridge device disposed between the receiving feature and the sensor device.
 12. The lighting system of claim 10, wherein the first coupling feature of the sensor module comprises a retention rib that engages a first channel of the mounting feature, wherein the retention rib, when engaged with the first channel, allows for rotational movement of the sensor module relative to the housing and prevents decoupling of the sensor module from the first mounting feature.
 13. The lighting system of claim 12, wherein the first coupling feature of the sensor module further comprises at least one spring tab that engages a platform and a second channel of the first mounting feature, wherein the at least one spring tab, when engaged with the platform, limits the rotational movement of the sensor module relative to the first fixture housing.
 14. The lighting system of claim 13, wherein the first coupling feature of the sensor module further comprises at least one sealing member that engages an inner surface of a second coupling feature of the first mounting feature, wherein the at least one sealing member, when engaged with the inner surface of the second coupling feature, uses friction to maintain a position of the sensor module relative to the first fixture housing.
 15. The lighting system of claim 10, wherein the first coupling feature of the sensor module comprises a first aperture that engages a spring-activated pin of the first mounting feature, wherein the spring-activated pin, when engaged with the first aperture, prevents the sensor module from decoupling from the first fixture housing.
 16. The lighting system of claim 15, wherein the first mounting feature further comprises a second aperture that traverses therethrough, wherein the second aperture receives a securing member that abuts against the sensor module to prevent the sensor module from rotating relative to the first fixture housing.
 17. The lighting system of claim 10, wherein the sensor module is coupled to, decoupled from, and adjusted relative to the first fixture housing without tools.
 18. The lighting system of claim 10, wherein the sensor module is decoupled from the first fixture housing and coupled to a second mounting feature of a second light fixture, wherein the sensor module, when coupled to the second mounting feature, provides measurements of at least one parameter to the first light fixture and the second light fixture for operation of the first light fixture and the second light fixture.
 19. A sensor module that couples to a housing of a light fixture, the sensor module comprising: a housing having at least one wall that forms a cavity; a sensor disposed within the cavity, wherein the sensor is configured to measure at least one parameter used to control operation of the light fixture; a bezel coupled to the housing, wherein the bezel comprises an aperture that traverses therethrough; a lens disposed within the aperture; a mount disposed within the cavity and coupled to the bezel, wherein the sensor is supported by the mount; and a circuit board disposed within the cavity and electrically coupled to the sensor.
 20. The sensor module of claim 19, wherein the sensor is centered on the mount by the lens.
 21. The sensor module of claim 19, wherein the bezel further comprises at least one locating ring that protrudes from a top surface of the bezel, wherein the mount and the lens are centered on the bezel using the at least one locating ring.
 22. The sensor module of claim 19, wherein the bezel further comprises at least one discrete protrusion that provides a particular orientation of the bezel relative to the mount. 